Book excerpt: In the evolving environment of energy extraction, the conventional mindset that prioritizes profitability at the expense of safety and environmental concerns is becoming increasingly obsolete. The outdated dichotomy between economic gains and ecological responsibility not only risks environmental incidents but also undermines corporate standing and shared values. With stringent Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) requirements and energy transition imperatives, oil and gas operators in unconventional Fields face the challenge of navigating a web of compliance and sustainability mandates. There is a need for a paradigm shift, a comprehensive framework that integrates profitability, technological efficacy, and ecological compatibility for the sustainable exploration, development, and operation of unconventional oil and gas fields. Sustainability Applied to Unconventional Oil and Gas Field Exploration and Development, is a groundbreaking book designed to usher in this paradigm shift. This work presents a robust life cycle concept, offering a holistic framework that not only breaks free from the archaic mindset but also propels the industry towards a future where profitability and environmental responsibility are inseparable. The book provides oil and gas operators and the scientific community with a consultative source, delving into specific technologies that promote the swift implementation of economically profitable, technically effective, and ecologically compatible measures. By encouraging problem-solving discussions among stakeholders, including R & D teams, communities, and regulatory bodies, the book envisions a collaborative approach that benefits company stakeholders, local communities, and society at large without compromising the business's bottom line.