<p>In recent inclination, waste-derived catalytic materials have gained a unique identity in the catalytic community due to their versatile properties. These catalytic systems can play a prominent role in the sustainable synthesis of functionalized heterocycles, as they are inexpensive alternatives while being an efficient, user-friendly material. The current review examines the preparation and applicability of waste-derived catalysts in heterocycle synthesis including Michael addition, Knoevenagel condensation, dehydrogenation, oxidation, oxidative dehydrogenation, and others. Moreover, the challenges, possible future development directions, and opportunities in synthesizing potent bioactive heterocycles over waste-derived catalytic materials are addressed. This review will galvanize further research to explore advanced catalysts developed from waste materials and their implications in heterocyclization.</p>