<p>Advanced oxidation of activated percarbonate has received more attention as an alternative to advanced oxidation of activated hydrogen peroxide due to the fact that percarbonate carries solid hydrogen peroxide, avoiding the drawbacks of liquid hydrogen peroxide. Among many activators, iron-based materials show superiority in activating sodium percarbonate (SPC) as environmentally friendly, inexpensive, and easily available. Some studies have examined employing iron-based catalysts to revitalize SPC to remove recalcitrant organics, laying the groundwork for the application of SPC-based advanced oxidation. However, there is no comprehensive analysis on SPC activated by iron-based catalysts. Therefore, in this review we deeply summarized various iron-based catalysts/SPC system in decaying organic pollutants from perspectives on homogeneous and heterogeneous activation systems. We analyzed the effects and mechanisms of Fe²⁺, Fe³⁺, Fe⁶⁺, zero-valent iron, FeS, FeS₂, iron complexes, and other iron-containing substances in activating SPC for organics degradation. Furthermore, we discussed the effect of important influencing factors on organic matter removal in various iron-SPC systems. Finally, we provided future research directions for people endeavoring in the study of SPC-based advanced oxidation.</p> Graphical abstract <p></p>