MANILA, PHILIPPINES— SM Prime Holdings, Inc. (SM Prime) celebrates the first year of its SM Waste-Free Future program, launched in 2024 as a flagship environmental sustainability initiative to reduce waste generation and divert waste from landfills through recycling, composting, and sustainable disposal methods.
With the Philippines generating over 60,000 metric tons of daily waste according to DENR, SM Prime implemented a comprehensive waste management segregation system across all properties—malls, residences, offices, hotels, convention centers, and estates nationwide. The program has expanded beyond SM Prime to other SM groups and portfolio companies, making it a group-wide endeavor.
Central to the initiative are Recyclable, Disposable, Composable (RDC) bins that provide clear visual cues for proper waste segregation. All SM Store branches have deployed RDC bins, while SM Markets continues implementing its reusable bag system. Goldilocks Bakeshop has also adopted the RDC system across its SM Supermall locations.
The program strengthens partnerships across SM’s ecosystem. SM Hotels’ Tela Tales program transforms discarded linens into sustainable products, upcycling over 2,000 yards while providing community livelihood. SM Development Corporation partners with Globe’s Hapag Movement to rescue surplus food and reduce household waste. SM Supermalls’ Electronic Waste Collection Program, in partnership with PLDT and Smart, enables responsible disposal of electronic devices at Cyberzone areas.
Community engagement remains crucial. SM Cares recently mobilized over 5,000 volunteers across 18 SM Supermalls for World Oceans Day, collecting more than 30,000 kilograms of shoreline waste. Social media campaigns target youth to promote better waste segregation habits.
“Waste-Free Future is more than just a program—it’s a mindset shift. And we’re only getting started,” said Engr. Liza Silerio, SM Supermalls Vice President for Corporate Compliance and Program Director of SM Cares for Environment. “We call on our tenants, partners, and customers to continue the journey with us—because a truly sustainable future is one we build together.”
SM Prime believes a cleaner, more circular Philippines is within reach through continued collaboration and commitment
