PASAY, Philippines, Sept. 6, 2024 – SM, through SM Retail, will install waste segregation bins in 75 stores nationwide, reaffirming SM’s commitment to reducing waste and promoting sustainable practices. SM Retail has recently installed recycling bins in 25 branches across the National Capital Region (NCR), with 50 additional provincial branches scheduled to follow in the coming weeks. This initiative is part of the broader #SMWasteFreeFuture campaign.
The initiative promotes behavioral change in waste management through a clear segregation system for waste categorized into Recyclable, Disposable and Compostable, or RDC. It further reflects SM’s commitment to reducing waste through effective segregation and innovative disposal methods, positioning the company as a major proponent in addressing the national waste crisis.
“By placing recycling bins in 75 of our department stores, SM Retail is taking a practical step towards improving waste management. We aim to make it easier for our customers and employees to sort and recycle waste, supporting our broader goal of reducing environmental impact through clear and effective waste practices,” said Luis Lava, Vice President for Workplace and Administration at SM Retail Inc.
Aside from retail stores, the #SMWasteFreeFuture campaign involves installing RDC-labeled bins across various SM properties including malls, residences, leisure resorts, offices, hotels, and convention centers nationwide. SM is also encouraging its diverse range of mall tenants to join in this collective effort through information and education campaigns, using posters and similar labels.
“At SM, we stand united in this global movement. Our unified waste management and segregation campaign, involving our property, retail groups, and stakeholders, aims to create more impact for us and our communities,” said Engr. Liza B. Silerio, SM Supermalls Vice President and SM Cares Program Director for the Environment.
The #SMWasteFreeFuture campaign showcases a unified approach to waste management through collective efforts. Each unit within the SM ecosystem contributes practical and sustainable solutions, reinforcing its commitment to effective waste diversion and management. This not only integrates its core operations but also amplifies the impact of its sustainability initiatives across multiple sectors.
Building on the campaign, SM Prime’s joint venture with GUUN Co. Ltd. exemplifies a collaborative approach. GUUN brings Japan’s best practices, specializing in converting non-recyclable materials into ‘fluff fuel’ for cement kilns and industrial boilers. This eco-friendly fuel helps reduce waste and supports cleaner energy solutions.
In the hospitality sector, SM Hotels and Conventions Corp. (SMHCC) is spearheading practical and sustainable solutions. Through its Sustainable Diner Project with WWF-Philippines, SMHCC has diverted 198 tons of food waste from landfills as of 2019 to 2023 by integrating composting and collaborating with local farmers. Additionally, the Tela Tales project upcycles condemned linens into new products, creating livelihood opportunities and reducing textile waste. To date, Tela Tales has transformed 1,716 yards of linens.
In residential developments, SM Development Corporation’s collaboration with Globe and Scholars of Sustenance (SOS) through the Hapag Movement addresses food waste and food insecurity. This initiative allows residents to donate surplus food, which SOS converts into meals for local communities. With over 40 developments participating, SMDC aims to rescue over 110 tons of surplus food, providing 450,000 meals to families in need over the next 18 months.
The #SMWasteFreeFuture program underscores SM’s dedication to sustainable practices and environmental leadership, showcasing how collaborative efforts and innovative solutions can drive significant change in waste management and resource conservation.