<p>This study aimed to demonstrate that ZnWO₄@AC nanocomposites can break down rhodamine dye for better environmental use. Nanocomposites were produced through a simple hydrothermal process and studied using a variety of techniques to determine their optical, structural, and morphological properties. These techniques include X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, ultraviolet–visible diffuse reflectance spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction spectroscopy, and photoluminescence spectroscopy. The photocatalytic performance was investigated using Rhodamine B (RhB) dye. The band gap energy for ZnWO₄@AC nanocomposite material exhibited 2.17&#xa0;eV which is reduced from 3.5&#xa0;eV. RhB dye degradation was increased by the ZnWO₄ @ 1.0% AC nanocomposite, with a rate constant of 0.0493&#xa0;min⁻¹. Compared to bare ZnWO₄ samples, the kinetic rate constant of ZnWO₄ @ 1.0%AC nanocomposites was approximately 2.5 times higher. According to the results, photocatalytic performance of the ZnWO₄ @ 1.0% AC was much better than that of the pure ZnWO₄, ZnWO₄ @ 0.1% AC, and ZnWO₄ @ 0.5% AC nanocomposites. The synergistic effect results from the efficient separation and movement of the photoinduced electron–hole pairs. Activated carbon acts as an outstanding electron conductor, substantially improving charge migration and prolonging the lifespan of charge carriers. results of photocatalytic tests showed that ZnWO₄ @ 1.0% AC nanocomposites degraded 95% of RhB dye in approximately 150&#xa0;min. The results from the quenching studies showed that the breakdown of the dye followed a simple first-order pattern, indicating that the dye was broken down effectively owing to the abundant production of ROS. These research findings suggest the development of more effective ZnWO₄ @ 1.0% AC nanocomposites as promising and feasible candidates for environmental remediation.</p> Graphical Abstract <p></p>