<p>Maggot-based waste bioconversion, particularly using Hermetia illucens (black soldier fly) larvae, has emerged as a sustainable and resource-efficient approach for addressing the global rise in organic waste. This review compiles and analyses current advancements in the use of black soldier fly larvae (BSFL) for converting a wide range of organic materials into high-value products, including protein-rich biomass, lipid fractions, and nutrient-dense frass. Despite growing interest, a systematic understanding of the synergistic effects of key environmental parameters, such as temperature, humidity, photoperiod, and substrate composition, on larval development and waste conversion efficiency remains scarce. This knowledge gap critically limits process optimisation and predictability. A critical examination of the larval gut microbiome's role reveals its pivotal function in waste degradation and nutrient assimilation, directly linking substrate composition to bioconversion rates. In response, this review explores how biotechnological interventions, such as selective breeding and molecular enhancement, and advanced process control systems, including artificial intelligence and sensor-based automation, are pivotal for elucidating these complex interactions and enabling real-time optimisation. Furthermore, integrating BSFL systems with complementary waste treatment technologies, such as composting and anaerobic digestion, can enhance resource recovery within a circular bioeconomy framework. Also,&#xa0;this review synthesises the multifaceted factors shaping maggot-based bioconversion, highlighting pathways to overcome current bottlenecks and fully realise its potential for sustainable waste management.</p> Graphical Abstract <p></p>