SM Supermalls has implemented many measures to be more energy-efficient and make better use of natural resources in order to protect the environment.
Steven Tan, SM Supermalls president, said they really wanted to push these and showcase whatever they have, “because we feel it is the right thing to do, and for us to set an example to other companies.”
Here are some of the ideas that customers can adopt into their own home to save money and the planet.
Home solar panels are now becoming more affordable, and with the money they save on electricity bills, these eventually pay for themselves.
SM is using solar energy as part of its commitment to sustainability. The Mall of Asia was the first Philippine mall to use rooftop solar decks, which are now used in 10 of its malls with plans to install 50 more over the next few years.
The mall chain is sourcing around 68 percent of its energy from renewable sources, which has helped reduce energy consumption by 28 percent and carbon emissions by 31 percent.
Customers can start with small changes such as switching to outdoor solar lights or solar water heaters, or by looking for appliances that use less electricity.
Designing its malls to be both energy and water efficient, SM uses LED lighting systems that have 50 percent energy savings and sensor-activated escalators which save another 30 percent. The skylights, green walls, and windows also make full use of natural light.
SM, which has supported the use of environment-friendly transportation, has dedicated bike lanes, hundreds of bike racks, vending machines, and service repair stations. It also has produced biker’s safety videos and manuals which can be downloaded from https://www.smsupermalls.com/smcares/advocacies/bike-friendly-sm/.
SM has also deployed the country’s first in-mall free charging stations for e-vehicles in SM Aura, SM North Edsa, SM Mall of Asia in Pasay City, and SM Megamall.
SM also supports the recycling efforts of the surrounding communities with its Trash to Cash Recycling Market.
Every first Friday and Saturday of the month, customers can bring their recyclables and exchange them for cash. They can also join the plastic waste collection program and regular electronic waste programs at participating SM Cyberzones.
SM malls have rainwater catchments to harvest rainwater, especially in flood-prone areas, which serves the double purpose of conserving water and helping its communities to stay safe and flood-free. Whenever it rains, 20 SM malls can catch up to 79,257 cubic meters of rainwater, which is enough to fill 32 Olympic-sized swimming pools.
Similarly, at home, customers can collect rainwater in large barrels for gardening or cleaning floors. There are many guides they can find online that can teach them how to save rainwater.
Living green is now easy with SM Green Finds.
Customers can drop by the SM Green Finds pop-up store at The SM Store Mall of Asia and look for the Green Finds badge for everyday products that are better for them as well as the planet.
They can go green with clean beauty essentials, handcrafted products from local artisans, eco-friendly baby products, and so much more.
“SM has always strived to nurture and give back to all the communities we serve. That includes creating a greener, safer environment,” Tan also said.
“Through our programs, we also hope to make it easier for people to make eco-friendly choices in everyday life. The Green Movement is not just about what SM does within the malls, but what we can do together as a community,” he added.
