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Thursday, September 19, 2024

SM Prime joins global conversation on building sustainable cities for the future

September 19, 2024 0 Comments
SM Prime Holdings (SM Prime) played a pivotal role in advancing sustainable urban development by hosting the 7th annual Association of Pacific Rim Universities – Sustainable Cities and Landscapes (APRU-SCL) 2024 Conference and 3rd International Conference on Human Settlements Planning and Development (ICHSPD) at SMX Convention Center Aura. 

This prestigious event, organized by the University of the Philippines Los Baños (UPLB), brought together over 300 experts to discuss innovative solutions for building greener and more resilient cities. Focused on the theme "Advancing Sustainable Cities and Communities Through Science, Technology, and Innovation," the conference highlighted the importance of collaboration in addressing urban challenges.



SM’s commitment to sustainability was evident through the participation of its top executives. SM Supermalls’ President Steven Tan showcased SM Supermalls’ eco-friendly practices and community-focused programs.

“Our malls are more than just shopping centers; they are dynamic public spaces, woven into the daily lives of millions of Filipinos. Our comprehensive environmental sustainability programs are deeply inspired by the vision of our Chairman of the Executive Committee, Mr. Hans Sy, a tireless advocate for environmental sustainability and disaster resilience,” Mr. Tan said.

He added, “At SM Supermalls, we leverage science and technology to develop innovative solutions that are seamlessly integrated into the design and operation of our malls. We remain committed to leveraging innovation and collaboration to build a greener, more resilient, and more sustainable future for the Philippines.”

SM Prime and SM Development Corporation (SMDC) Lead Executive for Design, Innovation, and Strategy Jessica Bianca Sy, shared the company’s vision of creating sustainable integrated properties that foster lively communities.

National Resilience Council (NRC) Executive Director Silvestre Barrameda Jr. highlighted SM’s role in disaster preparedness. He presented “From Risk to Resilience: The Work of the National Resilience Council in Risk Governance” where he introduced the Resilience Local Government Unit Program (RLGUP), NRC’s approaches and tools and how risk governance is supported by the sciences.

SM Prime’s commitment to sustainability was further emphasized during a breakout session on creating connections and partnerships, hosted by Jonas Marie Dumdum, Senior Consultant and Sustainability Lead of Nomura Research Institute (NRI) Manila Branch. Katherine Custodio, Executive Director of World Wide Fund For Nature (WWF)-Philippines, underscored the significance of collaboration: “Any program that aims to build climate resilience requires strong partnerships and working together across all sectors.”

SM Prime remains committed to its role as a catalyst for economic growth, delivering innovative and sustainable lifestyle cities, thereby enriching the quality of life of millions of people. SM Prime is pursuing the next horizon on integrated property development and onward to building sustainable cities of the future.
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Wednesday, September 18, 2024

SM City Baguio's rainwater treatment facility: A model for water sustainability

September 18, 2024 0 Comments
SM City Baguio is making significant strides in water stewardship with its innovative rainwater treatment facility (RTF), launched in July 2023. In the months since, the facility has already processed over 17,111.80 cubic meters of rainwater – equivalent to 7 Olympic-size swimming pools, or enough to fill over 6,800 standard water tankers – into potable water for the SM mall’s operations and for their lessees’ use.

This initiative supplements the mall's water supply from the Baguio Water District and significantly contributes to the city's water security and the safety of its residents. Located at the mall’s basement level, the RTF provides 30% of the mall’s total monthly average requirement for clean water that is safe for consumption and food preparation.

"There is a critical need for reliable and safe water sources," said Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong. "And SM City Baguio's rainwater treatment facility is a commendable initiative that directly addresses this need. We hope that other private establishments can adopt similar projects for the efficient use of our water resources."


The RTF utilizes a meticulous six-step treatment process, with equipment monitored and parameters checked in real time to ensure optimal performance. The processed water undergoes regular testing by the city’s accredited testing facility and consistently passes all water potability standards.

"This facility is a testament to SM Prime Holdings' commitment to sustainable operations and to the well-being of the communities we serve," said Engr. Liza Silerio, SM Supermalls’ Vice President and Sustainability and Resilience Head. "By maximizing rainwater harvesting and treatment, we are not only reducing our reliance on the city's water supply but also contributing to a healthier and more resilient Baguio City."


The impact of the RTF extends beyond the mall itself. With reduced reliance on the city's water supply, water haulers have been able to service more households, particularly during periods of water scarcity experienced throughout the city.


SM City Baguio's rainwater treatment facility stands as a shining example of how businesses can play a vital role in addressing critical community needs through innovative and sustainable solutions.


SM Prime remains committed to its role as a catalyst for economic growth, delivering innovative and sustainable lifestyle cities, thereby enriching the quality of life of millions of people. SM Prime is pursuing the next horizon in integrated property development and onward to building sustainable cities of the future. 
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Monday, September 16, 2024

Embracing net zero: The Philippines' urgent call to climate action

September 16, 2024 0 Comments
As we enter the typhoon season, recent extreme weather events have once again underscored the Philippines' vulnerability to such conditions.

As the nation grapples with the potential aftermath, it is clear that being part of the global conversation on achieving net zero emissions is imperative. This typhoon has highlighted the urgency for the Philippines to be an active participant in the fight against climate change, not only to mitigate future impacts but to also contribute to global solutions.

The concept of net zero refers to balancing the amount of greenhouse gases emitted with an equivalent amount removed from the atmosphere. For the Philippines, a country frequently in the crosshairs of severe weather, achieving net zero is a crucial step towards enhancing climate resilience. The recent typhoon has made it evident that the country cannot afford to be a bystander in the global efforts to combat climate change. Instead, it must be a proactive player, advocating for and implementing strategies that contribute to the global net zero target.




One of the key areas where the Philippines can make a significant impact is by leveraging its abundant natural resources to transition to renewable energy sources. By increasing investments in solar, wind, and hydroelectric power, the nation can reduce its reliance on fossil fuels, thereby lowering its carbon footprint. 

This transition is crucial for achieving net zero and offers the added benefit of creating a more resilient energy infrastructure less susceptible to disruptions caused by extreme weather.

SM Prime Holdings, Inc. recognizes the equal importance and urgency of both climate change adaptation and mitigation. As part of our strategy, we are investing 10% of our Capital Expenditure (CAPEX) in sustainability and disaster resilience design.

A significant initiative supporting this commitment is SM Prime’s pledge to achieve net zero emissions by 2040. As the country’s leading integrated sustainable property developer, we have committed to the Science-Based Targets Initiative (SBTi), a recognized global standard for corporate decarbonization targets. This makes us one of the few corporations in the Philippines to do so. To ensure our near and long-term science-based targets for 2030 and 2040 align with the global commitment to achieve net zero by 2050, SM Prime collaborates with the World-Wide Fund for Nature Philippines (WWF) through their Corporates for a Better Planet Initiative (CBPI) program.

This ambitious target is supported by concrete actions, such as the installation of onsite solar panels across various properties and strategic partnerships for renewable energy sourcing. These initiatives not only reduce the company's carbon footprint but also set a precedent for other businesses to follow, demonstrating that sustainable practices can be integrated into core business operations.

Pledging to advance every person’s right to a better quality of life through heightened climate action, disaster risk reduction, biodiversity protection, and our strategic corporate social responsibility programs, this commitment places climate action at the forefront as one of SM Prime’s sustainability agenda.

SM Supermalls have enhanced natural lighting and improved insulation, reducing energy needs for lighting, heating, and cooling, leading to more efficient and environmentally friendly operations.

Using solar panels or other renewable energy sources lowers the carbon footprint, leading to reduced greenhouse gas emissions and decreased reliance on non-renewable energy.
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Saturday, September 14, 2024

Shaping the Future: Building Sustainable and Resilient Cities

September 14, 2024 0 Comments
What makes a city thrive? 

It's a combination of visionary planning, purposeful development, and a strong sense of community. A thriving city doesn’t just happen by chance; it emerges when developers, government officials, and citizens come together to create spaces that foster movement, synergy, and prosperity. At the heart of this development is the celebration of life—where the community becomes the core, and sustainable growth is a shared goal. At SM Prime Holdings, Inc. (SMPHI), the vision for future cities transcends the traditional metrics of economic success. 




“At SM Prime, we dream big for our shared future. True prosperity is more than financial gain. It includes the development of sustainable, integrated properties, paired with a dedication to fostering vibrant, inclusive communities. Our legacy properties are built to last, withstanding the test of time and future challenges," says Ms. Jessica Bianca Sy, Lead Executive for Design, Innovation, and Strategy at SMPHI and SM Development Corporation (SMDC). 

Sy’s leadership at SM Prime aligns perfectly with the company’s goal of shaping cities that stand strong in the face of climate change and other pressing global challenges. Her participation in the 7th Annual Conference of the Association of Pacific Rim Universities – Sustainable Cities and Landscapes Conference and Student Symposium 2024 (APRU-SCL 2024) speaks volumes about her commitment to sustainability. 

This year's conference, themed "Advancing Sustainable Cities and Communities through Science, Technology, and Innovation," brings together experts from around the globe to discuss strategies that can lead to the development of more sustainable urban spaces. As one of the Philippines' leading integrated property developers, SM Prime has consistently demonstrated a commitment to sustainability and disaster resilience, crucial for a country like the Philippines that is highly vulnerable to natural disasters. With a population continually growing and cities expanding rapidly, there is an increasing demand for energy, water, and other essential resources. 

SM Prime addresses these challenges by prioritizing disaster preparedness and infrastructure resilience, aiming to scale these efforts to the city level. A significant component of SM Prime’s sustainability agenda is the shift toward renewable energy solutions. By working with energy franchise holders, the company has initiated projects to systematically manage energy use and reduce carbon footprints, moving closer to achieving net-zero emissions. This transition is vital not only for the company’s future but also for the cities it helps develop. 

When discussing SM Prime's future large-scale developments, Sy highlights a systems approach to utility infrastructure. “For our upcoming master-planned projects, we are embedding utility frameworks into the urban design guidelines at the precinct or plot level. This involves integrating critical infrastructure—like water, energy, and transport—into the overall blueprint of city planning,” she explains. Sy emphasizes that these efforts are not made in isolation but are developed in collaboration with a network of knowledge partners. Together, they have identified six key themes—transport, energy, water, biodiversity, built form, and materials—that will shape the cities of tomorrow. This living framework is not just a dream for Sy and SM Prime; it is a tangible, actionable vision. 

“We believe this is the future for cities in the Philippines. We are committed to delivering this vision for the benefit of future generations,” she states confidently. Through its work, SM Prime has proven to be a catalyst for economic growth, creating vibrant and sustainable communities that enrich the lives of millions. 

The company’s innovative approach to property development, paired with a forward-thinking sustainability agenda, is charting a course toward building resilient cities capable of withstanding the challenges of tomorrow. 

In doing so, SM Prime is not just developing real estate—it’s building the future. The 7th APRU-SCL 2024, hosted by the University of the Philippines Los Baños, will take place from August 6-8, 2024, at the SMX Aura Convention Center. This conference brings together local and international experts to explore the evolving landscape of sustainable urban development.
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Thursday, September 12, 2024

Create waves of positive change with SM at the 2024 International Coastal Clean-Up

September 12, 2024 0 Comments
The International Coastal Clean-Up (ICC) is back for another year and is shaping up to be the biggest one yet, taking place simultaneously on September 21 in 15 different SM Supermalls across the country: SM By the Bay at SM Mall of Asia Complex, SM Tuguegarao Downtown, SM City Tuguegarao, SM City Bataan, SM City Olongapo Central, SM City Olongapo Downtown, SM City Sorsogon, SM City Legazpi, SM Daet, SM City Puerto Princesa, SM City Roxas, SM City Cebu, SM City Seaside Cebu, SM City Mindpro, and SM City General Santos. Together, we can make a significant impact on our oceans and create a cleaner, healthier environment for all.

In 2023, SM Cares recorded more than 100,000 kg of trash collected with the help of an estimated 17,000 total volunteers from 15 SM Supermalls nationwide. This year, in celebration of its 20th year of supporting communities and creating a positive impact on the environment, SM Cares aims to double the amount of solid waste collected to 200,000 kg, eyeing a volunteer count of 20,000.



If you're interested in joining the global movement towards cleaner seas and oceans, SM Cares is inviting you to be part of this year's ICC!

For participants from NCR, you may register via SM Malls Online through this link: https://click.smmallsonline.com/DFqS/ICC2024

For participants from Cebu, you may register via SM Malls Online at https://click.smmallsonline.com/DFqS/ICCSMSSXSMCC

For outside of NCR and Cebu, you may visit this link: https://bit.ly/ICC2024-Registration

SM Cares is the corporate social responsibility arm of SM Supermalls, responsible for initiatives that promote sustainability and the development of the community. SM Cares’ advocacies include programs on Women and Breastfeeding Mothers, Persons with Disabilities, Senior Citizens, and Children and Youth, as well as the Bike-Friendly SM initiative, in addition to its Programs on Environment.
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Tuesday, September 10, 2024

Building Climate Resilience Through Collaborative Partnerships

September 10, 2024 0 Comments
The Philippines ranks as the country most vulnerable to disasters, making it crucial to build national resilience in response to intensifying climate impacts. This challenge requires a collective effort across all sectors, ensuring that the nation can respond, recover, and adapt effectively. 

“Any program aimed at building climate resilience demands strong partnerships and collaboration across all sectors,” said Katherine Custodio, Executive Director of World-Wide Fund for Nature Philippines (WWF-PH), during the breakout session of the 7th Annual Conference of the Association of Pacific Rim Universities – Sustainable Cities and Landscapes Conference and Student Symposium 2024 (APRU-SCL 2024). 




Custodio emphasized the need for cohesive efforts between organizations, government, and private sectors to bring national policies to life, particularly those focused on climate adaptation and sustainability. Custodio highlighted that successful climate initiatives depend on sincere efforts to work across disciplines and sectors. She stressed that such collaborations would be instrumental in turning policy commitments into actionable programs. Jonas Marie Dumdum, Senior Consultant and Sustainability Service Lead of Nomura Research Institute (NRI) Manila Branch, hosted the session, which centered on the importance of creating connections and partnerships. 

Custodio further explained the significance of engaging corporate leaders in climate action. “Finding the right champions within the company is crucial,” she said, noting that leadership involvement from the top is key to ensuring that corporate climate goals are aligned with national objectives. One notable partnership in the Philippines is between WWF-Philippines and SM Prime Holdings, Inc. (SM Prime). Over the years, this partnership has produced various successful programs, including the **YOUth are the Future** campaign, the annual **Earth Hour** event in collaboration with SM Supermalls, **SM Hotel’s Sustainable Diner** initiative, and the **Hamilo Coast Sustainable Development Project**, now in its 14th year. 

“At SM Prime, we dream big for our shared future. True prosperity transcends financial success,” said Jessica Bianca Sy, Lead Executive for Design, Innovation, and Strategy for SM Prime and SM Development Corporation (SMDC). Sy reaffirmed the company's commitment to developing sustainable, integrated properties while fostering vibrant and inclusive communities that can endure the challenges of time and climate change. SM Prime, one of Asia's leading integrated property developers, recognizes the importance of science-based climate action. The company has made a strong commitment to transitioning to a net-zero economy by aligning with WWF-PH’s **Corporates for a Better Planet Initiative (CBPI)** program. 

Through this partnership, SM Prime is working on setting near and long-term science-based targets for 2030 and 2040, in line with global climate goals to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050. Custodio expressed her satisfaction with the collaboration, stating, “WWF-PH is pleased to work with SM Prime on their decarbonization efforts. Companies like SM Prime are guided in identifying climate-related risks, developing roadmaps, and committing publicly to science-based targets.” 

Custodio also emphasized that climate action is a long-term endeavor, especially when working with communities across the country. "Change does not happen overnight. True partners are willing to work together for the long term and actively listen to one another," she said. According to her, the most impactful projects are those that sustainably improve people's livelihoods and well-being. 

SM Prime continues to be a catalyst for economic growth, focusing on creating sustainable lifestyle cities that enhance the quality of life for millions. The company is committed to pushing the boundaries of integrated property development, leading the way toward building sustainable cities for future generations.
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Sunday, September 8, 2024

SM Prime: Engineering a sustainable future

September 08, 2024 0 Comments
SM Prime leads the way in sustainable development, integrating sustainability into its core business strategy.

Sustainability has become a driving force across every industry. For SM Prime Holdings, Inc. (SM Prime), one of Asia’s leading integrated property developers, sustainability is elevated through a strategic framework that leverages the company’s extensive operations, significant economic impact, and cultural influence.

SM Prime’s sustainability journey began in the 1990s, guided by a focus on resilience and practicality. The company has always valued substance over style, favoring strategies grounded on real-world application rather than flashy, short-term fixes. Its strategy is built on what truly matters to the business and the community it serves, ensuring that its sustainability efforts are both effective and enduring.


In its 2023 Annual Integrated Report, SM Prime introduced its Sustainability Ambition Roadmap with a clear and powerful message: Together for a sustainable future – aligned with its vision of creating and managing innovative, sustainable, and integrated property developments that enhance the quality of life for all.



Building on its sustainability framework of Economy, People, Planet, and Community, SM Prime identified three major goals to pursue: Environmental sustainability, Prosperity for all, and Climate resilience – all aimed to create a future marked by sustainability, resilience, and widespread prosperity by 2030, 2040, and beyond.


Under its environmental sustainability strategy are two significant programs released by the company: Net Zero by 2040 and #SMWasteFreeFuture.


Net Zero by 2040


SM Prime is committed to enhancing people’s quality of life by intensifying climate action, reducing disaster risks, investing in resilient design, protecting biodiversity, and implementing strategic corporate social responsibility programs, with its main focus on climate action toward a net-zero business. The company has been collaborating with the World-Wide Fund (WWF) for Nature-Philippines to establish science-based targets in alignment with the global commitment of a net-zero ambition by 2050.


“We understand the magnitude of the challenges we face to achieve our Net-Zero commitment. SM Prime is determined to take action and meet its climate commitments. This is one of our top agendas in sustainability,” said Jeffrey C. Lim, SM Prime President and CEO.


#SMWasteFreeFuture


SM Prime launched its vision for an #SMWasteFreeFuture, in support of the United Nations Environment Programme’s (UNEP) International Day of Zero Waste. The program introduces a simple segregation scheme: Recyclable, Disposable, and Compostable (RDC), all aimed at reducing overall waste generation and increasing the waste diversion rate from landfills through sustainable disposal methods. The initiative was launched nationwide for SM employees and across all SM property groups and stakeholders.

SM Prime continues to support existing programs and partnerships that promote better waste management solutions. Initiatives such as SM Supermalls’ Trash-to-Cash recycling market, Plastic Waste Collection and E-Waste Collection programs, and regular coastal and estero clean-up activities effectively engage the community in rethinking their relationship with waste.

To address food waste, SM Hotels and Convention Corporation (SMHCC) has pioneered projects such as The Sustainable Diner with WWF-PH, diverting 198,640 kg of food waste through bokashi composting and 40,013 kg through biodigesters. SMHCC also launched Tela Tales, a program that recycles condemned linens.


Water stewardship


SM Prime is committed to water stewardship by implementing innovative water conservation and management practices, ensuring that properties developed are more responsive and adaptable to the changing needs of communities.

Through its sewage water treatment plants, wastewater is processed, preventing contaminated water from polluting local waterways and for reuse. The recycled water is utilized in malls for water closet flushing, air conditioning operations and landscape greening.




Prosperity for all

SM Prime’s developments serve as catalysts for socio-economic progress, delivering tangible benefits to all stakeholders. Founded by Henry Sy, the company remains committed to his vision of bringing world-class developments to the Philippines. A vision perfectly exemplified through the Mall of Asia Complex which offers a blueprint for future cities that go beyond commercial success to embrace a holistic approach to urban development.


SM Prime celebrated its 30th year as a publicly listed company last July 23, signifying three decades of service and transformative growth in the Philippine real estate industry. 

“True leadership is marked by a solid dedication to collective success. Our journey at SM Prime demonstrates the power of dreaming big and the incredible achievements that follow when you pursue those dreams with determination and hard work.” – JEFFREY C. LIM, SM PRIME PRESIDENT AND CEO
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