Carbon nanotubes represent a milestone in materials science, offering extraordinary properties that challenge conventional limits in strength, conductivity, and functionality. From their formal discovery in 1991 to their present-day experimental and commercial applications, CNTs have remained at the cutting edge of nanotechnology. Their diverse applications in electronics, structural materials, energy storage, and biomedicine underscore their versatility and potential. However, several challenges continue to constrain their broader adoption. Production remains expensive and energy-intensive, though costs are steadily falling due to advances in synthesis and industrial scale-up. Moreover, environmental and health concerns related to CNT synthesis, use, and disposal highlight the need for comprehensive regulation and sustainable design principles. Looking ahead, the future of CNTs will depend on balancing performance with safety and sustainability. Innovations in green manufacturing, improved recycling, and life-cycle management will be critical to realizing the full potential of carbon nanotubes in building a more advanced and sustainable technological future. As the world demands lighter, stronger, and more efficient materials, CNTs are likely to play a pivotal role—if developed responsibly.