Heavy metals like lead and chromium cause serious environmental and health problems in industrial effluent. Developing environmentally friendly and economically viable solutions is required since conventional treatment techniques for removing these toxins often prove ineffective and costly. Due to its high removal efficiency, adaptability, and cheap operating costs, adsorption technology has emerged as a potential strategy. With an emphasis on eco-friendly and economical methods, this review paper investigates the potential of adsorption technology for removing Cr and Pb from industrial wastewater. The performance of several adsorbents in adsorption capacity and selectivity and their synthesis processes are discussed. To increase removal efficiency and make the process more commercially feasible, the paper also covers current developments in adsorption technology. The article also highlights the significance of considering sustainability considerations for adsorption technology, such as using renewable resources, recycling and regenerating adsorbents and reducing waste output. The difficulties and prospects for using sustainable and affordable adsorption technology to remove Cr and Pb are finally reviewed, offering insights into the possible routes for more research and development.