Abstract: In recent years, kaolinite-based composite catalytic materials have been widely used in light/electrolytic water hydrogen production, fluidized catalytic cracking, wastewater and waste gas treatment and environmental antibacterial due to their low cost, excellent chemical stability, and high-efficiency catalytic performance. Its renewable cycle characteristics and excellent performance can contribute to the construction of clear waters and green mountains as well as help to achieve the carbon peaking and carbon neutrality goals. In this paper, the latest progress of kaolinite-based catalytic materials in different catalytic fields and their synthesis and application are reviewed. The application of kaolinite-based photocatalytic materials, kaolinite for catalytic cracking, kaolinite-based persulfate active materials, kaolinite-based H₂O₂ active materials and electrocatalytic materials are mainly introduced. Meanwhile, the action mechanism and application form of kaolinite in various catalytic materials are also introduced. Finally, the development of kaolinite-based catalytic materials in the field of environmental purification and energy was summarized and prospected.