By supporting the Water for Tomorrow Campaign, SM Prime promotes sustainability

“As businesses face growing water challenges, we must take action to secure our Water for Tomorrow. Water stewardship is an investment in our future. We must move beyond conservation and prioritize resource protection, waste reduction and water security for future generations.” ~Hans T. Sy, SM Prime Executive Committee Chairman

SM Development Corporation (SMDC)’s Sea and Shore Residences donate their treated wastewater to green the landscape of the Estates in Mall of Asia Complex.

With freshwater resources being strained by rising urbanization and population increase, one of the most urgent issues of our day is access to clean and drinkable water.  Effective water management is essential for both the environment and civilization, according to the United Nations (UN)-Water.

Since the early 1990s, long before water stress and its connection to climate change were generally acknowledged, SM Prime Holdings, Inc. (SM Prime), a prominent integrated property developer in Southeast Asia, has placed a high priority on water conservation and management.

In order to ensure responsible resource management and promote the welfare of the people it serves, SM Prime actively incorporates climate resilience into its initiatives through its water stewardship campaign, Water for Tomorrow.

Sustainable water management

SM Prime's building operations incorporate effective management systems and water conservation methods.  To lower freshwater consumption and the need for municipal water supplies, the corporation makes significant investments in sustainable water management technologies.  In order to address the growing problem of water security, it has identified innovative and realistic water usage practices. 

Sixty-one percent of SM Prime's reported 7.2 million cubic meters of water use in 2023 came from recycling. 

Mall operations typically use over 1 billion gallons of recycled water.  Recycled water is used by SM Supermalls for air conditioner tower cooling, plant and landscaping maintenance, and cleaning and sanitation. The mall's water usage is also controlled with low-flow fixtures and water-saving technologies with efficient plumbing. 

The group as a whole has scaled these practices.  Greywater is recycled by sewage treatment systems located in the Mall of Asia Complex's E-Com Centers for SM Offices.  In addition to rainfall collecting devices that support the upkeep of its urban gardens, the Sea and Shore Residences of SM Development Corporation (SMDC) provide their treated wastewater discharge to the greening of the MOA Complex's estates. 

The Pico Sands Hotel's freshwater usage was cut by 36% as part of SM Hotels and Convention Corporation's water conservation program, resulting in 52% water reuse and 41% for Pico de Loro Beach and Country Club. Since 2010, its water desalination plant, which serves all developments that call Hamilo home, has had a major impact on water management and sustainable eco-tourism in conjunction with Hamilo Coast, SM Prime's luxury and recreational estates in Nasugbu, Batangas. 

Protecting water resources 

SM Prime supports this year’s UN-Water World Water Day 2025 on March 22, which focuses on the theme “Glacier Preservation.” 

Glaciers, which are found halfway around the world, are essential to the global water cycle.   About 69% of the fresh water on Earth is stored in glacial ice, making it the greatest freshwater reserve.  The world faces a water crisis that will impact the most vulnerable due to accelerated glacial melting, changing rainfall patterns, droughts, and rising sea levels.

SM Prime keeps incorporating water-efficient solutions into its real estate projects since it understands these difficulties and the necessity of a consistent water supply.  This promotes appropriate water use among mall patrons, tenants, staff, and communities while also raising public awareness.  To lessen reliance on freshwater sources, SM Supermalls opened the SM City Baguio rainwater treatment facility (RTF) in 2023. It is still operational and providing services to its host community after turning 17,000 cubic meters of rainwater into drinkable water. 

SM Prime’s Water for Tomorrow program plays a key role in SM Prime’s sustainability strategy, along with Net Zero by 2040 and a Waste-Free Future. 

SM Prime: Engineering a Sustainable Future

“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.” ~Jeffrey C. Lim, SM Prime President and CEO

SM Prime leads the way in sustainable development, integrating sustainability into its core business strategy.

Sustainability has become a driving force in all industries. SM Prime Holdings, Inc. (SM Prime), one of Asia's leading integrated property developers, prioritizes sustainability through a strategic framework that capitalizes on the company's extensive operations, significant economic impact, and cultural influence.

SM Prime's sustainability journey began in the 1990s, with a focus on resilience and practicality. The company has always valued substance over style, preferring strategies based on real-world application over flashy, short-term solutions.  Its strategy is based on what is truly important to the business and the community it serves, ensuring that its sustainability efforts are effective and long-lasting.

In its 2023 Annual Integrated Report, SM Prime introduced its Sustainability Ambition Roadmap with a clear and powerful message: Together for a Sustainable Future, which is consistent with the company's vision of creating and managing innovative, sustainable, and integrated property developments that improve the quality of life for everyone.

SM Prime’s sustainability strategy is built on three main goals:

1. Environmental sustainability
2. Prosperity for all
3. Climate resilience

Building on its Economy, People, Planet, and Community sustainability framework, SM Prime identified three major goals to pursue: environmental sustainability, prosperity for all, and climate resilience, all with the goal of creating a future marked by sustainability, resilience, and widespread prosperity in 2030, 2040, and beyond.

The company's environmental sustainability strategy includes two significant programs: Net Zero by 2040 and #SMWasteFreeFuture.

Net Zero by 2040

SM Prime is dedicated to improving people's quality of life by stepping up climate action, lowering disaster risks, investing in resilient design, protecting biodiversity, and implementing strategic corporate social responsibility programs, with a primary 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 that are consistent with the global commitment to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050.

SM City Santa Rosa's solar photovoltaic (PV) system has 5,772 panels at 3.088 MWp capacity and has an annual solar energy production of up to 4.292GWh.

#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. 

SM Prime gathers the community for a #SMWasteFreeFuture.

SM Development Corporation (SMDC) recently partnered with Globe and Scholars of Sustenance Philippines for the Hapag Movement, aimed at targeting food waste and involuntary hunger affecting millions of Filipinos.

“As a community, we strongly believe in our ability to contribute to solving today's waste issues. We understand that this may seem like a daunting challenge to overcome. However, by joining forces, we can create a world that our future generations truly deserve – if we have the courage to take on this journey together.” ~Hans “Chico” Sy, Jr., President of SM Engineering Design and Development Corporation (SMEDD) and SM Sustainability Champion

Water stewardship

SM Prime is committed to water stewardship by implementing innovative water conservation and management practices that make properties more responsive and adaptable to changing community needs.

Its sewage water treatment plants process wastewater, preventing contaminated water from polluting local waterways and allowing it to be reused. Malls use recycled water to flush toilets, operate air conditioning systems, and green the landscape.

SM City Baguio’s Rainwater Filtration Facility addresses water security and ensures a safe and sufficient water supply for the operations of the mall and its tenants.

SM Prime Holdings, Inc.’s Chairman Henry T. Sy, Jr. receives SM Prime’s 30th Listing Anniversary Plaque from the Philippine Stock Exchange’s President and CEO Ramon S. Monzon.

Prosperity for all

SM Prime's developments drive socioeconomic progress, providing tangible benefits to all stakeholders. Henry Sy founded the company, and it remains committed to his vision of bringing world-class development to the Philippines. A vision perfectly exemplified by the Mall of Asia Complex, which serves as a blueprint for future cities that look beyond commercial success and embrace a holistic approach to urban development.

SM Prime celebrated its 30th anniversary as a publicly traded company on July 23, marking 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 

SM Prime Joins Global Conversation on Building Sustainable Cities for the Future

“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. 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.” ~Mr. Steven Tan, SM Supermalls’ President

(L-R): Moderator Efraim Roxas, Environmental, Land Use and Urban Planning and Development Bureau (ELUPDB) Director Mylene Rivera, SM Supermalls’ President Steven Tan, and Tohoku University Professor Jeongsoo Yu

SM Prime Holdings (SM Prime) played a critical 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 the 3rd International Conference on Human Settlements Planning and Development (ICHSPD) at the SMX Convention Center Aura. The University of the Philippines Los Baños (UPLB) organized a prestigious event with over 300 experts to discuss innovative solutions for building greener and more resilient cities. The conference's theme, "Advancing Sustainable Cities and Communities Through Science, Technology, and Innovation," emphasized the importance of collaboration in addressing urban challenges.

SM's commitment to sustainability was demonstrated by the participation of its top executives. President Steven Tan of SM Supermalls showcased the company's eco-friendly practices and community-focused programs.

Mr. Steven Tan, SM Supermalls’ President

SM Supermalls’ President Steven Tan highlights the malls’ sustainability initiatives.

Jessica Bianca Sy, Lead Executive for Design, Innovation, and Strategy at SM Prime and SM Development Corporation (SMDC), spoke about the company's vision of creating sustainable integrated properties that foster vibrant communities. 

(L-R): University of the Philippines Los Baños’ (UPLB) Dean Jennifer Marie Amparo, UPLB Chancellor Jose Camacho Jr., Association of Pacific Rim Universities (APRU) Chief Executive Thomas Schneider, Makati Mayor Abigail Binay, SM Prime and SM Development Corporation (SMDC) Lead Executive for Design, Innovation, and Strategy Jessica Bianca Sy, International Conference on Human Settlements Planning and Development (ICHSPD) Conference Director Edgar Reyes Jr., and APRU-Sustainable Cities and Landscapes Director Yekang Ko

Silvestre Barrameda Jr., Executive Director of the National Resilience Council (NRC), emphasized the importance of social media in disaster preparedness. He discussed the Resilience Local Government Unit Program (RLGUP), NRC approaches and tools, and how risk governance is supported by science.

“From Risk to Resilience: The Work of the National Resilience Council in Risk Governance.” ~Silvestre Barrameda Jr., Executive Director of the National Resilience Council (NRC)

Silvestre Barrameda Jr., Executive Director of the National Resilience Council (NRC)

Jonas Marie Dumdum, Senior Consultant and Sustainability Lead at Nomura Research Institute (NRI) Manila Branch, emphasized SM Prime's commitment to sustainability during a breakout session on connecting and forming partnerships. Katherine Custodio, Executive Director of the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF)-Philippines, emphasized the importance 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 an economic growth catalyst, creating innovative and sustainable lifestyle cities that improve the quality of life for millions of people. SM Prime is pursuing the next horizon in integrated property development and moving forward to build sustainable cities of the future. 

SCPW, UAPSA join hands with SM Prime in promoting wetland conservation

"It is an honor and privilege on the part of SM to partner with the SCPW and UAPSA in realizing its common goal of protecting ecosystems, particularly wetlands, by inspiring the youth to engage and take action on the socio-civic and economic issues in their communities by finding workable solutions towards building a sustainable future." ~Rida Reyes Castillo, SM Prime AVP and Head of Marketing, PR, and Communications

SCPW president Arch. Celestino Ulep leads a discussion on nature-based architecture during the fourth SCPW Wetland Center Design Symposium. Photo from SCPW

As the world celebrated the International Day for Biological Diversity 2023, SM Prime Holdings Inc. (SM Prime) joined the Society for the Conservation of Philippine Wetlands, Inc. (SCPW) hosted the fourth SCPW Wetland Center Design Symposium on May 29th at the MAAX Building in the Mall of Asia Complex.

Bannering the theme  "Build Back Biodiversity: Wetland Centers and Nature-Based Architecture," the hybrid symposium featured presentations centered on fostering knowledge and awareness about wetland conservation and innovative design approaches.

SM Prime AVP and Head of Marketing, PR, and Communications Rida Reyes Castillo

The symposium organized by SCPW (presumably referring to an organization or institution) appears to have been a significant event focused on wetland conservation, nature-based architecture, and sustainable design. The event was opened by SCPW president Ar. Celestino Ulep, who expressed optimism about the potential of collaboration and nature-based architecture to promote thriving wetlands and biodiversity.

Prominent figures in the field, including Chris Rostron from Wetland Link International and Alex Hughes from Wildfowl & Wetlands Trust in London, were present as guest speakers. They initiated discussions on the crucial role of Wetland Centers in wetland conservation efforts, emphasizing their functions in communication, capacity building, education, participation, and awareness (CEPA).

Architect Ulep, in his presentation, introduced the concept of nature-based architecture, highlighting the significance of sustainability and design harmony with the natural environment. This likely involves creating structures that blend seamlessly with the surroundings while prioritizing ecological balance.

Architect Aaron Lecciones, SCPW Special Projects Officer, provided a visual presentation focused on the experiences of the Las Piñas-Parañaque Wetland Park (LPPWP) Design Team. This presentation likely detailed the challenges and successes encountered during the design process of the wetland park, aiming to inspire aspiring designers and architects to undertake similar environmentally conscious projects.

Distinguished partners, including Rida Reyes Castillo from SM Prime, Dr. Arvin Diesmos from the ASEAN Centre for Biodiversity, Laudemir Salac from DENR-Region 3, and Gleo Raymundo from UAPSA, participated in the event to demonstrate their support for the initiative. Their presence likely indicates a collaborative effort between governmental agencies, private companies, and academic institutions to promote wetland conservation and nature-based architecture.

Overall, the symposium appears to have fostered a platform for exchanging insights, experiences, and ideas related to wetland conservation, nature-based architecture, and sustainable design, with a focus on collaboration and ecological harmony.

SCPW President Ar. Celestino Ulep leads the opening of the Wetland Center Design Symposium

Castillo further emphasized that environmental protection and nature conservation are integral pillars of SM Prime's sustainability campaign and that they believe in the power of cultivating the younger generation’s devotion to building a sustainable future.

The symposium concluded with a comprehensive discussion on the rules and guidelines of the design competition, followed by an open forum and exchange of ideas among participants.

The symposium also marked the beginning of the highly anticipated 4th SCPW Wetland Center Design Competition, which aims to create a platform for talented students in the field of construction and design to showcase their skills and ingenuity and encourages them to address environmental challenges through sustainable solutions.

SM Prime, UPLB Team Up for Sustainability Scholarship

“Improving the well-being of its partner communities and investing in people’s growth have long been among SM Prime’s sustainability pillars woven at the core of its business strategies and operations. As such, SM Prime deems it important to create programs that would provide access to quality education for all, and in the long term, create a pool of proactive human resources who can responsibly carry out and balance the economic, social and environmental aspects of a society’s sustainable development aspirations. SM Prime believes UPLB would be the best partner to support its sustainability initiatives in promoting a conducive learning environment while honing new Iskolars ng Bayan leaders committed to knowledge creation and public service.” ~Rida Reyes Castillo, SM Prime AVP and Head of Marketing, PR, and Communications

Members of the University of the Philippines Los Banos (UPLB) and SM Prime Holdings Inc ink partnership to create scholarships geared towards sustainable development. Present during the signing are (From left) UPLB College of Forestry and Natural Resources Dean Marlo Mendoza, UPLB College of Human Ecology Dean Dr. Ricardo Sandalo, SM Prime AVP and Head of Marketing, PR, and Communications Rida Reyes Castillo, UPLB Chancellor Dr. Jose Camacho Jr., and Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs Dr. Janette Malata-Silva.

SM Prime Holdings Inc. (SM Prime) has partnered with the University of the Philippines Los Baños (UPLB) to further promote the country’s pursuit of sustainable development.

SM Prime's goal is to assist a select group of students in earning their Bachelor of Science in Human Ecology (BSHE) or Bachelor of Science in Forestry (BSF) degrees by providing them with scholarships to cover courses related to sustainability.

The scholarship, which will be given to students from low-income families in Pasay City, aims to improve employment prospects and assist in reducing inequality and poverty, which are major roadblocks to sustainable development.

Collaboration for innovation and sustainability

In an interview, UPLB Chancellor Dr. Jose Camacho, Jr. shared his optimism about the partnership, citing the impact of education, especially sustainability-related fields of studies, in social and economic mobility.

“The scholarship will enable more students to pursue their studies in areas related to sustainability such as environmental science, renewable energy, and sustainable agriculture. By investing in education in these areas, we are preparing a new generation of leaders who will have the knowledge and skills to address the complex environmental and social challenges facing our world today. It will encourage research and development in areas related to sustainability. By providing support for students to pursue advanced studies, we are creating a pipeline of future researchers and innovators who can develop solutions to pressing environmental and social problems.” ~Dr. Jose Camacho, Jr., UPLB Chancellor

The UPLB chancellor is of the opinion that the scholarship has the potential to produce competent leaders capable of resolving complex environmental and social challenges and to establish a pipeline of innovative researchers in addition to allowing students to pursue education without incurring financial burden.

He further stressed how fostering collaborations and innovation in sustainability between the academic community and the private sector can lead to new environmentally and socially responsible products, technologies, and services that contribute to the Sustainable Development Goals.

SM Prime AVP and Head of Marketing, PR, and Communications Rida Reyes Castillo signed the memorandum of agreement alongside UPLB Chancellor Dr. Jose Camacho Jr. The scholarship formed under the partnership continues SM Prime’s pursuit of sustainable development.

Ripples of social good

SM Prime AVP and Head of Marketing, PR, and Communications Rida Reyes Castillo shared that the partnership between SM Prime and UPLB is a testament to the shared commitment of both institutions towards promoting sustainability and creating a better future for the next generation. 

SM Prime hopes to contribute to the growth of a society that is more sustainable and equitable by providing financial assistance to students who wish to pursue higher education. In doing so, it hopes to spread positive social change throughout families and communities.

The SM Prime Sustainability Scholarship is open to students from Pasay City, under UPLB's BSHE and BSF programs with an annual gross family income of not more than PhP150,000.00

For more information, interested applicants may contact the UPLB OSG +63 49 536 3209 or email at osg.uplb@up.edu.ph.

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