Conventional machining processes such as turning, drilling, and milling are basic material removal type cutting techniques used commercially to produce a wide range of parts, components, and products. When it comes on their use for precision machining, cutting of difficult-to-machine (DTM) materials, processing of micro-components, and making typical shapes and intecrate features, they underperform and result in poor machinability, escalated machining cost, and high environmental footprints. Even under normal operating conditions, it may result in high consumption of energy and resources; generation of toxic fumes, particulate emissions and other wastes; risk for health and safety; high tool wear, and deterioration in the machined part surface quality. Innovative sustainable techniques such as dry and near dry (minimum quantity lubrication and cryogenic) machining, tool treatment and texturing, heat assisted machining etc. have been developed to overcome the machinability and sustainability challenges in conventional machining. This review article presents a state of the art on development of these sustainable techniques for economic and ecological benefits in conventional machining processes. The main objective of this paper is to facilitate researchers and academics by providing useful information in order to establish the field further.