SM Group's Renewed Commitment to Plastic Waste Reduction and Sustainability Initiatives

SM Group’s Commitment to Plastic Waste Reduction

The SM Group, a prominent player in the retail and property sectors in the Philippines, has recently amplified its efforts to tackle plastic waste across its diverse business operations. This initiative is part of a broader commitment to sustainability, which acknowledges shared responsibility in combating one of the most pressing environmental issues of our time.

Driving Change through Collaborative Efforts

Under the guidance of SM Investments Corporation, the group has established a dedicated working committee aimed at integrating plastic reduction strategies into the sustainability roadmaps of its business units. This collaborative approach is designed to encompass all aspects of operations, promoting a cohesive effort to minimize plastic waste.

The initiative aligns with the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) Act of 2022, enforcing legal accountability for companies to manage their plastic packaging products responsibly. Timothy Daniels, the Head of Investor Relations and Sustainability at SM Investments Corporation, stresses the necessity of both social obligation and practical measures in addressing this issue.

Implementing Greener Solutions

Among the various initiatives highlighted is the SM Markets brand, which encompasses SM Supermarket, SM Hypermarket, and Savemore. Since 2007, these grocery outlets have championed eco-friendly practices by encouraging customers to use reusable eco-bags over single-use plastics. In a remarkable achievement, SM Markets sold an impressive 19 million Green Bags in 2024 alone, equating to approximately 42 million fewer plastic bags used.

Similarly, Watsons Philippines, an affiliate of SM Retail, has made significant strides towards sustainability by transitioning 81% of its stores to paper bags. The brand currently offers over 2,140 products classified as Sustainable Choices, encompassing clean beauty products and better packaging, reflecting a commitment to providing environmentally responsible consumer options.

Furthermore, Goldilocks Bakeshop, Inc., part of SM's investment portfolio, has successfully reduced the amount of plastic used in its packaging by decreasing the size of ribbons, resulting in a notable decrease of 7,000 kilograms of plastic annually. The logistics arm, 2GO Group, Inc., has also made efforts to implement environmentally friendly packaging, utilizing 100% recyclable materials for its shipping operations.

Infrastructure and Community Engagement

SM Prime Holdings, Inc., the property division of the SM Group, has established facilities to support and enforce effective waste management and plastic reduction strategies. All properties now feature Materials Recovery Facilities (MRFs) and standardized waste segregation systems that have successfully diverted over 63,874 kilograms of plastic from landfills.

An innovative initiative dubbed Trash-to-Cash (TTC), held monthly at all SM Supermalls, enables customers to exchange recyclables like paper and plastic for cash. This program has facilitated the exchange of more than 12 million kilograms of recyclables since its inception, a testament to the community's capability and willingness to participate in sustainable practices.

Additionally, SM Supermalls have introduced the RDC (Recyclable, Disposable, Compostable) classification bins, providing clear options for waste segregation. Educational campaigns further engage employees and customers, amplifying SM's sustainability efforts.

In the hospitality sector, SM Hotels and Conventions Corporation has made significant strides by eliminating single-use plastics since 2018, instead opting for refillable or eco-friendly amenities across its properties.

Conclusion: A Collective Commitment

Timothy Daniels reinforces that the SM Group's approach to plastic waste reduction is driven by a culture of shared solutions, continuous growth, and proactive actions across all sectors. In light of the alarming statistics reported by the United Nations Environment Programme regarding plastic pollution, the group's initiatives exemplify a determined and comprehensive strategy against the environmental challenges posed by plastic waste.

As one of the leading conglomerates in the Philippines, SM Investments Corporation's commitment to sustainability is more than just a business strategy; it is a call to action that resonates throughout its diversified operations, hoping to inspire similar efforts across the region and beyond.