This paper examines the effectiveness of existing policy and governance frameworks for sustainable unconventional natural gas (UNG) extraction in South Africa, aligned with sustainable development goals and energy security. Amid a growing population and energy-generation challenges, transitioning from coal to natural gas offers emissions reductions and energy stability (UN, 2023a; Roelf, 2023). Environmental concerns and weak governance frameworks, however, complicate sustainable UNG development (DoE, 2018; Steyl & Van Tonder, 2013). An environmental, social, and governance (ESG) framework proves vital for balancing technological innovation, socioeconomic progress, and environmental stewardship (Anderson & Brown, 2011; Vasquez, 2013; De Wet, 2024). Despite the enactment of the Upstream Petroleum Resource Development Bill on 29 October 2024 to address regulatory gaps (SA Government, 2021), effective network governance remains necessary to navigate policy challenges and ensure sustainable development (Roberts, 2013; DMRE, 2022). The study advocates for cohesive policies that harmonise economic growth, environmental integrity, and societal well-being (NDP, 2013). The research methodology was grounded in a mixed-methods, theory-driven evaluation framework to assess the effectiveness of policies governing indigenous unconventional natural gas (UNG) extraction in South Africa and their alignment with sustainable development objectives. Drawing on thematic analysis of legal, policy, and scholarly sources, the study identifies regulatory and institutional gaps and advances a pragmatic governance framework to support the sustainable development of South Africa’s emerging UNG sector.