Environmental forensics is a developing field of study applying science, law, and inquiry to identify pollution sources, timing, and accountability. Environmental forensics has been developed from pollution tracking and regulatory enforcement into a complex discipline that examines difficult environmental crimes. Pollution and environmental degradation are examined via time analysis, source attribution, and pollution fingerprinting. Modern environmental forensic investigations apply both traditional and innovative approaches. Geospatial technology, biological markers, genetic and microbiological forensics provide ecological and spatial background for contamination events. Predictive modeling, pattern discovery, and data harmonization across environmental datasets are enabled by artificial intelligence, machine learning, and big data. Research is advanced by 3D environmental reconstruction, eDNA applications, satellite, and drone observation. Despite scientific developments, environmental forensics faces legal challenges, data access, and confidentiality of environmental crimes. The future of environmental forensics rests on its capacity to welcome innovation, adapt to new challenges, and link research and policy. As environmental crimes get increasingly complex and commercially motivated, environmental forensics will be more crucial than ever in ensuring responsibility and safeguarding of ecosystems.