Membrane technology has demonstrated significant potential for the separation and recovery of metal ions from aqueous solutions. This study highlights its applications across industries such as mining, wastewater treatment, and chemical processing, with a focus on resource recovery, environmental sustainability, and industrial efficiency. Among the techniques discussed, polymer inclusion membranes (PIMs) receive particular attention due to their unique advantages in selective ion transport, high separation efficiency, and adaptability to specific applications. The study evaluates the properties of PIMs, including their chemical composition, stability, and ability to incorporate selective extractants for targeted metal ion separation. Case studies emphasize their effectiveness in removing heavy metals such as zinc ions and recovering valuable metals like gold and rare earth elements (REE). This study underscores the potential of PIMs as a sustainable and efficient technology for addressing the growing global demand for valuable metals, contributing to resource efficiency and environmental protection.