Tag: environment

SM Prime: Living in Tomorrow’s Water-Resilient Future 

On By Jennifer PagalilauanIn StoriesLeave a comment

Manila, Philippines — At SM Prime Holdings, Inc. (SM Prime), water stewardship has come a long way since its early initiatives. As part of its environmental sustainability strategy, the programmatic Water for Tomorrow campaign looks beyond water recycling and efficient water management. 

For SM Supermalls, this urgent call to action to protect and preserve a valuable resource makes any large-scale investment in water security a sound opportunity to do good for both people and planet.

SM Southmall in the late 90’s. Located in the water-challenged area of Las Pinas, the mall was the first to have a sewage treatment plant (STP) for water recycling. It opened to the public in 1995, followed by SM Bacoor in 1997, saving a significant volume of water otherwise used for flushing. 

Amplified impact

With 89 malls nationwide, SM Supermalls’ high-impact yet practical water management systems and circularity practices build long-term capacity for future water disruptions and reflect the malls’ greater ecosystem. 

A community solution. At the launch of SM City Baguio’s Rainwater Treatment Facility (RTF), innovation meets sustainability, setting a benchmark for water efficiency.

Having introduced sewage treatment plants nearly three decades ago, well before any compliance requirements, SM Supermalls also made significant investments in efficient low-flow fixtures and water-saving technologies to prevent unnecessary consumption at scale. In 2023, the first rainwater treatment facility by a mall opened in Baguio to convert rainwater into another potable resource, alleviating pressure on the local water grid.  

At a cultural level, SM Supermalls becomes a living sustainability classroom where mallgoers, employees, and tenant-partners are made aware of its water, waste, and energy programs. Partnerships with NGOs, government agencies, and civic groups also sustain water conversations through the mall’s broad reach and are crucial to the sustainability agenda. 

SM Cares engages communities, mallgoers, and tenants in water conservation initiatives that inspire mindful consumption and collective action.

Embedding the message of water sustainability, SM Cares champions UN SDG6 – using every mall touchpoint and social media to create content on water conservation, access to safe water, sanitation, and hygiene for health and well-being 

Water sustainability is a shared responsibility across all SM malls. SM Cares engages and promotes water conservation initiatives that inspire mindful consumption and collective action.

As a vital community hub, the malls promote the wider SM Green Movement campaign, empowering people to practice responsible water use.

The first mall to receive LEED Gold Certification in 2017, SM Aura’s wastewater treatment plant and smart water management technologies ensure responsible and efficient water use.

Building what matters, today

Water’s essential role supports human activity and economic growth.  As climate concerns accelerate and affect water supply, SM Prime’s unified stance on water stewardship prepares for challenges ahead.

SM Supermalls not only assists larger partner-tenants with compliance and the bottom line. It similarly inspires smaller businesses and other stakeholders that depend on mall operations to adopt innovative solutions. 

“The scale of what we are doing today for water is already proof that we are reaping the benefits of the innovative vision of our leadership,” says Steven T. Tan, President of SM Supermalls. 

“What makes our programs truly meaningful is how they bring people and purpose together. It creates a ripple effect of sustainability that reaches beyond our walls,” said Tan.  ###

SM Prime: Shaping a Decarbonized Future for Malls 

On By Jennifer PagalilauanIn UncategorizedLeave a comment

With the 30th Conference of the Parties (COP30) taking place in Belem, Brazil, this November, the momentum to focus on lasting solutions for the planet’s climate crises comes at its most critical time. 

For SM Prime Holdings, Inc., this means that the journey to Net Zero by 2040 becomes more than a unifying force across its portfolio; it is the goal for strengthened implementation, sound partnerships, and collective resilience. 

The 2MWp rooftop solar photovoltaic system installed at MOA Square—developed with TotalEnergies—generates approximately 3,000 MWh of clean energy annually, reducing an estimated 1,430 tons of CO₂emissions each year. 

Empowered partnerships 

Security, affordability, and sustainability – these are known as the “energy trilemma” – challenges presently faced by businesses. It’s especially relevant for the future of property development and urban resilience. 

SM Prime continues forging strategic partnerships with leaders in renewable energy to expand its clean energy capacity, drive innovation, and accelerate the transition to a low-carbon future.

For SM Prime, a comprehensive and diversified energy mix is an approach that benefits renewable energy producers and transforms the industry, and is the broader strategy to reduce reliance on fossil fuels.

SM Supermalls has already achieved more than 50% of renewable energy use across its malls by leveraging partnerships with key renewable energy players and direct procurement

This energy infrastructure reflects SM Prime’s significant investment in emerging technologies. In 2022, SM Prime’s partnership with Aboitiz Renewables, Inc. (ARI) activated its strategic plans, and in 2024, it further broadened its renewable-energy footprint by partnering with TotalEnergies. The addition of Citicore Renewable Energy Corporation in 2025, along with the steady increase of leading solar rooftop suppliers for SM Supermalls, helps meet the demands for renewables through on-site generation. 

SM Sta. Rosa. SM Supermalls continues to scale its use of renewable energy across its nationwide portfolio. By increasing its solar rooftop capacity, SM helps make its malls cleaner, more energy-efficient, and more resilient for surrounding communities.

This commitment to sustainable energy drives positive change and contributes to SM Prime’s broader mitigation and adaptation strategies, supporting the country’s national framework in achieving its emission reduction targets. 

Energy for the people

Resilient communities and enduring partnerships for climate-smart urban centers are part of these system shifts toward energy independence. It confirms that renewables are a strategic asset, especially as they become affordable and community-serving, empowering businesses nationwide. 

It also supports a sustainable lifestyle. For the SM Green Movement, this balance is achieved by re-energizing neighborhoods to contribute to the climate crisis and offering more options to become energy and fuel-efficient, while improving quality of life. 

The festive Christmas Holidays at SM Supermalls.  Powered increasingly by renewable sources, SM malls continue to serve as vibrant community hubs—bright, welcoming spaces that reflect SM Prime’s commitment to sustainable and resilient development.

“We started the journey with our energy efficiency programs in the 90s,” said SM Supermalls President Steven Tan. “This lets us enjoy our mall spaces now because we maximize our energy use, lower operational costs, while hopefully, reducing our emissions,” 

“Of course, we still have a long way to go. But we are trying to make renewable energy accessible at scale to our malls – not just to create decarbonization value for the communities we touch and work with – but to provide flexible, adaptive, and sustainable mall experiences. Most importantly, a safer future for all,” said Tan.

Securing Tomorrow’s Supply: SM City Baguio Turns Rain into Resource 

On By Jennifer PagalilauanIn press-releaseLeave a comment

Baguio City, Philippines — As water security continues to challenge communities across the Philippines, SM City Baguio is showing how innovation and sustainability can flow together. Through its rainwater treatment facility, the mall treats rainwater to convert into potable water, helping secure tomorrow’s water supply for its operations.

Nestled in the highlands, SM City Baguio showcases how natural abundance can be harnessed sustainably through its rainwater treatment facility.

Baguio City experiences frequent rainfall but limited water resources. Water supply from the Baguio Water District is rationed, with some neighborhoods receiving water only twice a week, which they use to fill up their water tanks. When this runs out, residents depend on deliveries from private water companies. 

SM City Baguio’s pioneering system captures, treats, and stores rainwater to potable standards, producing up to 150 cubic meters of safe drinking water per day, with the capacity to double production to 300 cubic meters daily.

Through advanced filtration and treatment systems, SM City Baguio converts collected rainwater into potable-grade water, setting a new benchmark for sustainability in commercial developments

The innovative system supports mall operations and contributes to SM Prime’s Water for Tomorrow campaign, demonstrating responsible and efficient water use.

This initiative reduces reliance on local water utilities while ensuring the mall can continue serving millions of visitors responsibly. More importantly, it demonstrates how rainwater, when managed smartly, can be harnessed to address urban water scarcity.

“We’ve always valued innovation and creativity in the malls – we take it a step further now to where it truly matters. SM City Baguio’s rainwater treatment facility shows how the right innovation can secure tomorrow’s water,” said SM Supermalls President Steven Tan.

Championing Water for Tomorrow

SM Prime’s Water for Tomorrow campaign advocates efficiency, innovation, resilience, and awareness in water resilience, and promotes the wider sustainability campaign of the SM Green Movement. Beyond Baguio, SM Prime’s water initiatives span the installation of advanced treatment facilities, recycling systems, and community engagement programs.

In 2024, SM Prime recorded a 26.23% increase in recycled water volume, rising from 4.42 million cubic meters in 2023 to 5.59 million cubic meters.

The SM Green Movement’s Water for Tomorrow campaign continues to demonstrate how everyday innovation can ensure a sustainable tomorrow—for businesses, communities, and the planet. 

SM City La Union Boosts Climate Resilience with Rainwater Catchment System

On By Jennifer PagalilauanIn press-releaseLeave a comment

San Fernando, La Union, Philippines —   With climate change driving heavier rains and more frequent floods, proactive flood prevention has become a key part of building resilient communities. 

SM City La Union, now the 30th mall of SM Prime Holdings, Inc. (SM Prime) that features a rainwater catchment facility, expands its network of climate-resilient infrastructure nationwide. For SM Supermalls, catchment facilities are designed to collect and store large volumes of stormwater, preventing runoff that could otherwise overwhelm drainage networks. 

During heavy rainfall, the catchment temporarily holds stormwater, allowing gradual discharge through proper channels. Collectively, SM City La Union’s underground rainwater catchment system can provide a total capacity of 760 cubic meters 

The newly opened SM City La Union becomes the 30th SM mall to install a rainwater catchment system, supporting thousands of residents in flood-prone areas and demonstrating how business innovation protects communities.

(Photo caption) A design for tomorrow. SM Supermalls focuses on sustainable water use by managing available resources to meet the needs of future generations. 

Each drop contributes to a safer, more sustainable future for all. Mapping every opportunity to achieve Water for Tomorrow, treating and reusing water as a supplemental water source also significantly decreases freshwater consumption. In 2024, SM Prime achieved a 26.23% increase in recycled water volume, rising from 4.42 million cubic meters in 2023 to 5.59 million cubic meters. 

Social resilience is equally important as the physical infrastructure. SM Cares raises awareness on water conservation and adopting sustainable practices in daily life, helping to empower community action.  

“Our rainwater catchment systems go beyond flood control — they help create safer spaces for our communities. We hope to show how climate-smart infrastructure and innovation can protect lives, livelihoods, and progress,” said SM Supermalls President Steven Tan. ###

About SM Green Movement:

SM Prime Holdings, Inc. (SM Prime) is one of the largest integrated property developers in Southeast Asia, committed to creating sustainable, innovative, and inclusive spaces for Filipinos. Guided by its vision of building a better future, SM Prime develops malls, residences, offices, hotels, and leisure properties that support the growth of communities across the Philippines.

Through the SM Green Movement, SM Prime champions sustainability by focusing on waste management, water stewardship, and energy efficiency for lasting impact. The movement empowers individuals, families, and communities to take part in simple acts that create shared prosperity for generations to come. 

SM Prime: Smarter Water Management for a Resilient Future

On By Jennifer PagalilauanIn UncategorizedLeave a comment

Manila, Philippines — Water is a limited resource, and many Philippine cities face pressure on their supply due to rapid urbanization and climate change. SM Prime Holdings, Inc. (SM Prime), one of the largest integrated property developers in Southeast Asia, prioritizes water efficiency as a core operational strategy to pave the way for a water-resilient future.  

One of the world’s largest shopping malls, the SM Mall of Asia remains a sustainable marvel thanks to its water-saving solutions.

The result is a portfolio-wide water intensity of 0.44 m³/m²/year, already surpassing water efficiency standards of some of the leading global benchmarks.

For SM Supermalls, every chance to collect and conserve water is explored. Simple low-flow fixtures and the adoption of water-saving technologies prevent unnecessary consumption at scale. Recycling air conditioning condensate and processed water minimizes dependence on fresh water, and innovative approaches that capture portions of floodwater for non-potable use support sustainable water management. 

Managing water through innovation. SM City Laoag achieves everyday water responsible practices by recycling non-potable water for landscaping and garden irrigation, cleaning, air conditioning systems, and toilet-flushing. 

This efficiency means that for every square meter of mall space, SM Supermalls’ water use translates into millions of liters saved annually. 

Beyond equipment and systems upgrades, culturally integrating sustainability values is part of the solution. Water education campaigns for tenant-partners, employees, and mallgoers promote the wider sustainability campaign of the SM Green Movement. 

SM Supermalls was ahead of the Clean Water Act in 2004. SM City North Edsa lessens its dependence on freshwater sources for non-potable uses, optimizing resource efficiency and reducing environmental impact. The mall’s Sky Garden’s 400-meter green roof development is a green space in the dense urban jungle. 

Creating a sustainable mall experience like no other, SM Supermalls believes that investing in efficient and scalable water management systems also means bringing everyone together to ensure water for tomorrow. 

“Our mall water management systems are already at par with some of the best in the world. We do this because we understand that every liter saved eases the pressure on local water resources and secures our operations for the long term,” said SM Supermalls President Steven Tan. 

Water efficiency is nationwide for SM Supermalls. SM Seaside Cebu, thefourth-largest mall in the Philippines, uses recycled water for toilets, cleaning, and landscaping needs.

Every drop makes a difference, and conserving the planet’s valuable resources is communicated through SM Cares’ large and unique community platform, whether in the malls or on social media. The interactive and visually rich content is especially appealing for the younger, digitally active millennial and Gen Z workforce. 

“Our work in the malls is to make sure that we give you the best experience without compromising the needs of tomorrow, but of course, we cannot do it alone. When we combine all our actions as a community, no matter how big or small these are, we can all enjoy a water-resilient future,” said Tan. ### 

About SM Green Movement:

SM Prime Holdings, Inc. (SM Prime) is one of the largest integrated property developers in Southeast Asia, committed to creating sustainable, innovative, and inclusive spaces for Filipinos. Guided by its vision of building a better future, SM Prime develops malls, residences, offices, hotels, and leisure properties that support the growth of communities across the Philippines.

Through the SM Green Movement, SM Prime champions sustainability by focusing on waste management, water stewardship, and energy efficiency for lasting impact. The movement empowers individuals, families, and communities to take part in simple acts that create shared prosperity for generations to come.

SM Prime Launches Manual for a Waste-Free Future

On By Jennifer PagalilauanIn CSRLeave a comment

The SM Prime Holdings, Inc. (SM Prime) campaign for a Waste-Free Future and its Recyclable, Disposable, Compostable, or RDC model aims to make segregation simple, easy, and actionable.

In the recent Sustainability Expo (SUSTEX 2025), SM Prime launched the SM Waste Free Future Manual – a playbook that encourages individuals and communities to learn about RDC and building better segregation habits.

Small steps, big impact

In the Philippines, the country generates up to 61,000 tons of waste daily and an annual 2.7 million tons of plastic waste. A figure that will rise with urbanization and poor waste disposal practices.

Inspired by the SM Green Movement’s strong call to action to make sustainability part of everyday life, SM Waste Free Future invites everyone to become part of the solution.

The three categories, RDC, make sorting waste an empowering exercise by focusing on the word “able” meaning having the power, skill, or the opportunity “to do”. The manual’s easy, practical, and inspiring read hopes to encourage readers to do just that –championing segregation systems and proper waste disposal.

A limited number of copies have been printed in support of SM Prime’s sustainability efforts. A digital copy of the manual will be made available for download.

It also features innovative reuse programs of SM Prime’s business units that keep materials in circulation and out of landfills. When done at scale, each contribution can inspire others to follow, creating a ripple effect.

Learn, practice, champion

Done with great reflection during its incubation stages, SM Waste Free Future presented a rethink of waste segregation habits and systems built over time.

“We have to be open to new ways of doing things and of putting into action every little step that’s crucial for advancing waste management solutions,” said SM Engineering Design and Development President Hans “Chico” Sy, during the 2024 World Environment Day program launch.

Today, the campaign is deeply encouraged by institutions and agencies that strongly advocate developmental goals.

In his message of support, Dr. Selva Ramachandran, Resident Representative of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), lauded the RDC bin labeling system. “Proper waste segregation is an entry point toward a circular economy – one that goes beyond waste management to design out waste, keep materials in circulation, and regenerate natural systems.”

All together now

Together, we are stronger than we realize. “This project is not specific to one organization, but one that belongs to an entire society. We welcome everyone to practice this in their everyday lives,” Sy said.

To solve a mounting problem requires all hands on deck. SM Prime firmly believes that together, we can create a sustainable, waste-free future.

“A waste-free future requires shared action from government, business, and communities. May this manual be a catalyst for deeper collaboration, innovation, and circular solutions that support national priorities and the global Sustainable Development Agenda – building systems across sectors that prevent waste, recover valuable resources, and protect our environment for generations to come,” said Dr. Ramachandran.

SM Prime reinforces the SM Green Movement: Simple Acts, shared & lasting impact for a greener tomorrow

On By Jennifer PagalilauanIn CSRLeave a comment

As environmental challenges continue to grow, SM Prime Holdings, Inc. believes that the journey to a better future is built on the mindful choices we make each day and the stronger communities we form when we act together.

This is the heart of the SM Green Movement, SM Prime’s sustainability initiative and call to action for communities across the country. Born during the height of the pandemic, the Green Movement began with personal stories—employees choosing to reduce waste, conserve water, and use energy responsibly, even while under lockdown. These simple acts planted the seeds for something bigger: a movement that brings together the company, communities, and the country in pursuit of shared prosperity and a more climate-resilient future.

Focusing on waste, water, and energy, the SM Green Movement translates ambitious sustainability goals into everyday practices. 

It inspires suppliers, partner-tenants, residents, guests, and mallgoers alike to play their part in shaping greener, more livable cities. Each initiative is anchored on SM Prime’s mission: to achieve net-zero emissions by 2040, advance water stewardship, and work towards a waste-free future.

“The SM Green Movement is our way of showing care—care for our planet, and care for the people who live in it,” said SM Supermalls Executive Vice President for Marketing Joaquin San Agustin. “We’re not just building malls, homes, or offices—we’re building opportunities for everyone to be part of the solution. And the best part is, it starts with what we do every day.”

With a 3.785-Megawatt peak (MWp) solar power capacity, the SM City Fairview solar photovoltaic (PV) system has 6,882 solar modules over a total area of 4.3 hectares, currently making it the largest rooftop solar PV system on a commercial building in the country.

Collaboration That Drives Real Change

At the core of the Green Movement is a belief in the power of partnership. Lasting change is not a solo endeavor—it thrives through collaboration. 

SM Prime continues to work hand-in-hand with local government units, NGOs, schools, community groups, and individuals to co-create solutions that meet both environmental needs and everyday realities.

“Our strength as a company comes from our ability to mobilize people around a common cause,” said San Agustin. “The SM Green Movement is all about collective impact. Every bottle recycled, every drop of water saved, every watt conserved adds up.”

A Movement for Generations to Come

Today, the SM Green Movement is a growing platform for advocacy and action. With every new story, every new supporter, and every green step taken, SM Prime is helping to reframe sustainability as something within reach of every Filipino.

At the Mall of Asia Complex, water trucks carrying 100% recycled water help keep the property’s greenery thriving while promoting responsible water use.

Bin it right! SM Cares promotes proper waste segregation with clearly marked bins for recyclables, disposables, and compostables—helping communities take part in building a waste-free

SM and DOST Lead the Future of Sustainability

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SM Prime Holdings, Inc., through SM Supermalls, in partnership with the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) and ARISE Private Sector Alliance for Disaster Resilient Societies, officially staged the inaugural SM Sustainability Expo (SUSTEX 2025) at the SMX Convention Center Aura, Taguig.

The two-day event, themed “Innovation for Environmental Stewardship,” brought together over 50 exhibitors, government agency leaders, the private sector, the international community, and sustainability advocates to showcase cutting-edge solutions that advance a greener and more resilient future.

Symbolic Opening: “Beat of Sustainability”

The Expo opened with the ceremonial “Beat of Sustainability,” led by DOST Secretary Renato Solidum and SM Prime Executive Committee Chairman Hans T. Sy, who together struck the Solidrum—a bamboo drum shell developed by the DOST – Forest Products Research and Development Institute (FPRDI).

They were joined by SM Supermalls President Steven Tan, SM Prime Vice President Jessica Sy-Bell, and SM Supermalls Vice President Engr. Liza Silerio and other dignitaries played the angklung, a UNESCO-recognized bamboo instrument. The performance symbolized harmony and collective action in advancing sustainability.

Leadership Perspectives

In his opening remarks, Hans T. Sy emphasized that sustainability lies at the heart of SM’s business and highlighted the importance of partnerships—“Public-private partnerships such as this show how science and business can unite to address some of the most pressing environmental challenges of our time. We encourage more of this as the private sector can provide support to projects by local scientists.”

Secretary Solidum echoed this view, noting that SUSTEX demonstrates how innovation and science can strengthen national resilience and drive a circular economy, as championed by similar DOST efforts.

“Through OneDOST4U: Solutions and Opportunities for All, we ensure that the science, technologies, and innovations we develop are not just theories in journals or prototypes in laboratories—they are real solutions, accessible to businesses, communities, and every Filipino. This is also what we mean by Agham na Ramdam—science that is not distant; science that is felt, lived, and experienced by people in their everyday lives,” Solidum shared.

“My call is simple: enough talk. We’ve had summits, forums, and declarations that fill up shelves and inboxes. What we need now is proof. Businesses must set their sights on real, tangible goals—not pretty brochures, not slogans, but numbers you can measure, promises you can check.”

Innovation Marketplace: Over 50 Exhibitors

SUSTEX 2025 featured more than 50 exhibitors showcasing technologies, initiatives, and products that reflect Filipino ingenuity and global collaboration. Notable exhibits included SM Prime and SM GUUN’s “Waste-Free Future” campaign, which highlighted their joint initiative with Japan’s GUUN Environmental Company on advanced waste management. 

ARISE Philippines showcased efforts to advance disaster resilience through private sector collaboration. The DENR’s Loop Forward Program promoted circularity and large-scale waste reduction. The DOST-FPRDI centerpiece featured sustainable Lalang Pandan furniture, essential oils from Philippine plants, and bamboo musical instruments. Meanwhile, the DOST-CHRG presented innovations in electric vehicle technology.

A Catalyst for Action

Running from August 29 to 30, the Expo featured interactive sessions, product showcases, and knowledge exchanges. The event reinforced SM’s continuing sustainability roadmap, including its Waste-Free Future campaign and commitment to achieve Net Zero by 2040.

“May this Expo be more than an event. May it be a catalyst for collaboration, a hub for practical solutions, and a reminder that business can be a force for good—when guided by purpose, discipline, and partnership,” Sy concluded. 

Celebrating 40 Super Years of Evolving with Every You, SM Supermalls—one of Southeast Asia’s largest mall developers—continuously evolving to lead the way in sustainable development by integrating green design, energy efficiency, disaster resilience, and environmental stewardship into its 88 malls in the Philippines, all while creating inclusive spaces that enrich communities, support climate action, and ensure a better, more sustainable future for generations of Filipino shoppers.

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SM Supermalls elevates urban air quality

On By Jennifer PagalilauanIn StoriesLeave a comment

There’s nothing quite like strolling through a mall with breathtaking views, expansive arcades, and lush greenery. At SM Supermalls, shopping isn’t just about transactions—it’s about enjoying spaces designed for comfort, sustainability, and a healthier environment. More than ever, SM’s commitment to green infrastructure is shaping urban air quality while creating a more livable city for everyone.

Designing for people and the planet

SM Supermalls prioritizes people-centric design, creating welcoming spaces that balance nature with modern convenience. The SM Mall of Asia’s arcades and the MOA Sky, for example, offer open, breezy walkways, encouraging leisurely strolls and even outdoor dining and entertainment. Meanwhile, SM Aura and SM North EDSA’s Sky Garden—the first in an SM mall—integrates lush vegetation and water features to reduce indoor heat, improve air quality, and create cooling effects in dense urban areas.

SM North EDSA houses the first Sky Garden in an SM mall, highlighting endemic plants and water features that bring nature onto a rooftop.

The SM MOA Sky showcases greenery and open-air spaces that promote cleaner, cooler urban living.

Championing bike-friendly cities

Beyond providing open spaces, SM Supermalls is leading bike-friendly initiatives, with over 5,000 bike parking spaces across its properties. Studies show that replacing short car trips with biking can cut carbon emissions by up to 90%, significantly reducing air pollution and its long-term impact on climate change.

Cyclists gather at SM Seaside City Cebu, championing greener, healthier urban mobility.

Bikers enjoy the convenience of secure parking as SM Supermalls champions eco-friendly transport solutions.

Greening malls with native flora

Additionally, select SM malls feature endemic plant species that enhance air quality and support local biodiversity, filtering pollutants while creating a natural habitat for urban wildlife. These green spaces are designed not just for aesthetics but to actively contribute to a healthier environment.

Making public transport more convenient

To make sustainable transport more accessible, SM Supermalls operates transport terminals that support public transportation, providing seamless connections to buses, jeepneys, and other modes of transit. These terminals encourage commuters to opt for public transport, which can significantly reduce individual carbon footprints and traffic congestion, contributing to cleaner air and more efficient urban mobility.

Powering the shift to EVs

Recognizing the need for cleaner transportation, SM Supermalls has also installed Electric Vehicle Charging Stations (EVCS) in 69 malls nationwide. By providing essential infrastructure for electric vehicles, SM is helping to lower carbon emissions and reduce reliance on fossil fuels—a crucial step in improving urban air quality. Studies indicate that EVs produce up to 60% less greenhouse gas emissions compared to traditional gas-powered vehicles, making them a key solution for reducing pollution in crowded city centers.

Monitoring air, empowering communities

SM’s commitment to sustainability extends to air quality monitoring, ensuring that urban pollution levels are tracked and addressed. Under SM Prime Holdings, the company partnered with Quezon City to establish an air quality monitoring system that records environmental data and provides updates through a publicly accessible website. This initiative allows communities to stay informed while encouraging long-term strategies for a cleaner, healthier urban space.

SM Supermalls monitors air quality in real time, empowering communities with data for cleaner, healthier cities.

A greener future for urban living

From green roofs and bike-friendly amenities to EVCS and air quality monitoring, SM Supermalls is redefining retail spaces with a deeper environmental purpose. Every visit to an SM mall contributes to a better urban future, where sustainability and innovation go hand in hand.

40 years of building better communities

Celebrating 40 years of serving communities, SM Supermalls continues to lead as a shopping and lifestyle destination in the Philippines. True to its legacy, SM remains at the forefront of environmental sustainability through pioneering waste, water and energy innovations as well as disaster resilience initiatives.

SM Prime: Creating infrastructure for plastic-free communities

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According to the United Nations Environmental Programme (UNEP), the global production of plastics is forecasted to reach 1,100 million tonnes by 2050, with severe environmental, social, economic, and human health consequences. 

As one of Southeast Asia’s largest integrated property developers, SM Prime Holdings, Inc. (SM Prime) remains committed to creating thriving, sustainable cities. 

With a waste-free future as part of its environmental strategy, SM Prime encourages the observation of International Plastic-free Day on May 25 and its call to rethink single-use plastics (SUP) for one day. Moreover, SM Prime celebrates the group-wide strides made to support the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) Act of 2022.

The Recyclable, Disposable, and Compostable-labeled bins support SM’s waste-free future initiative and align with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources’ Extended Producer Responsibility Act of 2022.

A group-wide movement for the EPR Law

The SM group, working with its Producer Responsibility Organization (PRO), Philippine Alliance for Recycling and Materials Sustainability (PARMS), is pursuing a group-wide strategy to comply with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR)’s EPR Act of 2022.

Formally known as Republic Act 11898, the EPR law requires companies to take responsibility for the recovery of their plastic packaging products and to pursue waste management programs.

Acknowledging the challenges and realities for businesses and on-ground operations through its EPR working group committee, the SM group commits to a plan of action in reducing and recovering its plastic footprint within the given five-year period, sharing alternatives and new technologies to respond to the growing global crises, and establishing partnerships with government agencies and other private institutions.

As the property arm of the SM group, SM Prime’s commitment to a waste-free future aims to create the needed infrastructure that will help support and maintain plastic waste management strategies. 

Crucial to waste recovery efforts, SM Prime equips its properties with a Materials Recovery Facility (MRF), and standardized waste segregation and management practices to help reduce the amount of waste sent to landfills. A joint venture with a Japanese environmental solutions company, the SM GUUN Environmental Company, Inc. (SGECI), converts non-recyclable waste into cement fuel or “fluff fuel” for eco-conscious cement companies like APO Cement, Holcim, and Taiheiyo Cement, as part of its “co-processing” practice.

SM GUUN converts disposable waste into fluff fuel, which helps unload overfilled and over-capacity landfills.

Beyond compliance 

SM Prime continues with its established programs such as the nationwide Trash to Cash recycling market. Since 2007, it has been one of SM Supermalls’ flagship programs that continues to be more relevant given the times.

Available in all 87 SM malls, the Trash to Cash program has since been recognized as a rewarding community-driven practice for surrounding residents and mall tenants.

Activating the SM malls to help their communities with sorted plastic waste, Trash to Cash incentivizes the exchange of recyclables to provide a venue for plastic recovery. Fifteen SM Plastic Waste Collection sites likewise serve as drop-off points for clean, empty, and dry plastics. In addition, the Solid Waste Action Program (SWAP) reverse vending machines at SM Megamall and SM Mall of Asia enable the diversion of aluminum cans and polyethylene terephthalate bottles (PET), which are considered high-value plastic products.

The annual International Coastal Clean-up (ICC), supported by SM Cares, continues to empower volunteers to take part in this global effort for a record-breaking initiative. In 2024 alone, SM Cares helped mobilize 23,000 employees, students, and various communities that joined nationwide volunteer efforts to remove trash from the world’s beaches and waterways.

Volunteers participate in the International Coastal Clean-up (ICC) for a shared cause, with sign-ups increasing each year.

Hamilo Coast, known for its Marine Protected Areas and its commitment to living in harmony with nature, together with employees, guests, and residents, recovers plastic waste during beach clean-ups.

Aiming for a waste-free future 

Reduction is always the best option. The SM Hotels and Conventions Corporation (SMHCC) has long since eliminated SUPs from all properties in support of the UNEP’s campaign to phase them out. Pico Sands Hotel was also one of the first hotels to sign with the World-Wide Fund for Nature Philippines (WWF) in their Ayoko Na Sa Plastic Campaign in 2018.  

SMHCC has successfully replaced all single-use amenities, such as high-density polyethylene (HDPE) shampoo and shower gel bottles, and PET water bottles in all its hotel rooms.  Since 2019, as part of the SMX Convention Centers’ guidelines to promote sustainable events management practices, bamboo or starch-based environmentally friendly alternatives to replace plastic cutlery are encouraged to minimize waste generation.

Working collectively as a group to reduce the effects of the plastic waste crises creates a bigger impact at a greater scale. Through enhanced waste management systems, effective waste segregation practices, and proactive community effort, SM Prime aims to successfully divert a greater proportion of plastic waste away from landfills. 

“Our work is never done. There are new technologies, innovative solutions, and more avenues for collaboration to look forward to in making the EPR Act work for our communities,” said Engr. Liza Silerio, Vice President for Corporate Compliance and Program Director of SM Cares for Environment. “But we all have a role to play–it is every individual’s responsibility to create a waste-free future.”