2,4-Dichlorophenoxyacetic acid is a selective herbicide used all over the world for both agricultural and horticultural activities for controlling broadleaf weeds. The herbicide is known for exhibiting strong toxicity to humans and animals, and also known for its water contamination potential at varying levels depending on its field application rates. The main route of 2,4-D exposure to humans is through agricultural runoff owing to its excess application. Although several efforts had been taken for its removal from contaminated water bodies via the development of efficient technology, its water contamination continues to be more problematic. In this context, the present study was aimed to arouse the scientific community in developing a more efficient method for complete (100%) removal of 2,4-D from the contaminated sites. This is a qualitative review, which summarizes the various methods used thus far for removing 2,4-D from contaminated aqueous systems and their varying levels of success. © 2017, Springer-Verlag Berlin Heidelberg.