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Biomass‐based catalysis has drawn a gradually increased attention due to its eco‐friendliness, cost‐effective, and good reusability. In this work, a novel metal–organic framework (MOF) derived nitrogen‐doped zinc oxide carbon (ZnO/N/C) nanocomposites were synthesized on pine cone by solvothermal and carbonization method. Scanning electron microscopy, x‐ray diffractometer, and x‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy were employed to confirm the presence of N‐doped ZnO rod‐like nanostructures on the as‐prepared composites. The obtained ZnO/N/C nanocomposites were employed as catalytic materials for the decomposition of methylene blue (MB) dye and adsorption of formaldehyde (HCHO). The ZnO/N/C nanocomposites can degrade more than 90% of the MB solution within 90 min under visible light irradiation, besides, they can rapidly absorb and decompose HCHO. The high‐catalytic performance of ZnO/N/C nanocomposites can be attributed to the high‐superficial area of ZIF‐8, the carbonization that ensures the high conductivity and high‐slight absorption of carbon skeleton materials, and the accelerated transfer of photogenerated electrons. This simple and green preparation method has promoted the sustainable utilization of biomass resources with great significance for application of carbon‐based porous materials in catalytic field. Highlights: MOF derived ZnO/N‐doped carbon nanocomposites were successfully synthesized.Presence of N‐doped ZnO rod‐like nanostructures on carbon nanocomposites.ZnO/N/C nanocomposites could be used as a catalyst for MB photodegradation.ZnO/N/C nanocomposites can be readily absorption and decompose of HCHO. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]