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

SM City Baguio's groundbreaking rainwater treatment facility has treated over 17,000 cubic meters of rainwater into drinkable water.

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.      

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

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.

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

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.

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.

Collaborative partnerships for climate resilience

Ms. Jessica Bianca Sy, Lead Executive for Design, Innovation and Strategy for SM Prime and SMDC, shares her insights on sustainable and climate-resilient integrated properties.

The Philippines tops the list of countries with the highest disaster risk, thus building our capacity to respond, bounce back and adapt to intensifying climate impacts is a nationwide priority and shared responsibility.

“Any program that aims to build climate resilience requires strong partnerships and working together across all sectors,” said World-Wide Fund for Nature Philippines (WWF-PH) Executive Director, Katherine Custodio at 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). 

Earth Hour 2024 calls for Filipinos to switch off lights and stop using single-use plastics

Filipinos can help in solving two of our planet’s biggest problems, biodiversity loss and climate change, by doing their part in conserving energy and putting an end to the problem of plastic pollution.

Earth Hour 2024, set on March 23, Saturday, will once again bring together millions of people across the world so they can all give an hour for Earth and play a role in protecting nature. The local observance of Earth Hour, led by WWF-Philippines, will be held at the Kartilya ng Katipunan, beside the Manila City Hall.

Expanding sustainability: SM Foundation's 2nd rainwater harvesting system

Health workers in San Fernando, Cebu Primary Healthcare Facility water the locally sourced plants using the water from the rainwater harvesting system.

Rainwater harvesting is a way of collecting and storing rainwater for later use. It is an effective and adaptable way to conserve water and reduce reliance on main water supplies. Due to its efficacy, it has been applied by many civilizations in history and is being utilized today by forward-thinking institutions as a sustainable water management strategy.

EcoFest Run 2023 at Central Park, Filinvest City, Alabang / October 22, 2023

MNL City Run is taking a significant stride towards a healthier planet and a healthier community, including the beloved furry friends of many. They present EcoFest Run: Striding Towards Sustainability, an event featuring a special 1km Dog Run for an eco-conscious and positively delightful experience. It will held at Central Park, Filinvest City in Alabang, Muntinlupa City on October 22, 2023 (Sunday).

As the third event of the year for MNL City Run, EcoFest Run continues the organization’s dedication to making a positive community impact. Following a Php50,000 grant to the Cerebral Palsy Super Warriors Philippines, MNL City Run now calls upon runners in the metro and beyond to run for the benefit of the Million Trees Foundation Inc.

Established in 2017, the foundation champions the conservation and rehabilitation of Manila Bay and critical watersheds Angat, Ipo, Kaliwa, La Mesa, Laguna Lake, Umiray, and Upper Marikina. Their goal is to ensure that there are one million trees planted every year in an effort to sustain adequate water levels in key areas and safeguard the environment.

EcoFest Run is not just about environmental stewardship; it’s a lively celebration that fuses eco-consciousness with the thrill of a race. The introduction of the 1km Dog Run allows participants to share this unique experience with their pets.

Just like how the roots of a single tree channel and preserve water, each step you take in MNL City Run's newest event becomes a meaningful act of water conservation while keeping your fitness goals in check. So, lace up your shoes, leash up your dogs, and join us at EcoFest Run: Striding Towards Sustainability - where every stride counts for a greener future!

Race Categories:

21K Half Marathon
Registration fee: Php 1350.00
Kit inclusion: Singlet, Finisher Medal, Finisher Shirt, Race Bib with RFID tag and Raffle ticket.
Assembly time: 3:30 AM
Gun Start: 4:00 AM
Cut-off: 7:30 AM

16K
Registration fee: Php 1250.00
Kit inclusion: Singlet, Finisher Medal, Finisher Shirt, Race Bib with RFID tag and Raffle ticket.
Assembly time: 4:00 AM
Gun Start: 4:30 AM
Cut-off: 7:30 AM

10K
Registration fee: Php 1150.00
Kit inclusion: Singlet, Finisher Medal, Finisher Shirt, Race Bib with RFID tag and Raffle ticket.
Assembly time: 4:30 AM
Gun Start: 5:00 AM
Cut-off: 7:30 AM

5K
Registration fee: Php 850.00
Kit inclusion: Singlet, Finisher Medal, Race Bib with RFID tag and Raffle ticket.
Assembly time: 5:00 AM
Gun Start: 5:15 AM
Cut-off: 7:30 AM

3K
Registration fee: Php 700.00
Kit inclusion: Singlet, Finisher Medal, Race Bib with RFID tag and Raffle ticket.
Assembly time: 5:15 AM
Gun Start: 5:30 AM
Cut-off: 7:30 AM

1K  Dog Run
Registration fee: Php 600.00
Kit inclusion: Event Shirt for Handler, Race Bib, Dog Bandana and Finisher Token.
Assembly time: 6:00 AM
Gun Start: 6:15 AM
Cut-off: 7:00 AM

SM Prime explores potential partnership with Japanese firm for waste-to-fuel solutions

(L-R): SM Supermalls Vice President Liza Silerio, SM Prime Chairman of the Executive Committee Hans T. Sy, GUUN Chief Executive Officer Shinji Fujieda, GUUN Philippine Branch Senior Managing Director and General Manager Takeshi Konishi

Leading real estate developer in Southeast Asia, SM Prime Holdings, Inc. (SM Prime) recently signed a memorandum of understanding with Japan’s GUUN Co. Ltd. to explore a potential partnership to implement waste management solutions by recycling waste paper and plastics as an alternative source of energy called ‘fluff fuel’.

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

 
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 and WWF Philippines announce partnership to champion climate change solutions

SM Prime Holdings, Inc., one of Southeast Asia’s leading integrated property developers and leading conservation organization World Wild Fund for Nature (WWF) Philippines have entered a collaboration in adopting a more robust reporting framework to address the climate crisis. 

 

SM Prime and AboitizPower secure long-term Cleanergy deal

(From left to right) SM Prime Energy Consultant Jaime Patinio, AboitizPower Senior Vice President for Commercial Operations Sandro Aboitiz, SM Engineering, Design and Development President Hans Sy, Jr., SM Prime President Jeffrey Lim, AboitizPower President and Chief Executive Officer Emmanuel Rubio, Aboitiz Renewables, Inc. Vice President for Commercial Strategy, Sales, and Engagement David Aboitiz, AboitizPower Vice President for Retail - Commercial Operations Business Unit James Byron Yu, and SM Prime Chief Finance Officer John Nai Peng Ong gather for a luncheon on Thursday, August 4, after sealing a long-term partnership with the commitment to helping build a cleaner and brighter future.

SM Prime Holdings, Inc. (SM Prime), one of the leading property developers in Southeast Asia, secures a long-term deal with AboitizPower for Cleanergy supply, realizing its goal of increasing its renewable energy portfolio to more than 50%. This is in support of the Department of Energy’s program of moving up the renewable energy supply component of the country to 35% by year 2030.

4 ways to collect rainwater at home

The rainy season is here! That means hot drinks, sweater weather, and calming sounds of the rain pit-pattering on your roof. While the current season makes up for the previously hot and humid days, the rainy season is also a reminder that the water falling from the sky is nature’s blessing to the world.

With rain, crops grow, and dry patches of land become moist and nourished once again. Rain also returns water that has evaporated from lakes, rivers, and streams. In many ways, rain gives life and refreshes parts of the Earth. That said, here are four (4) ways to collect rainwater at home and save one of the most important resources we have: 

Create A Rain Garden

The rainy season in the Philippines lasts for several months. Many people take advantage of that by building rain gardens in their backyards. Create your own by finding a low spot in your yard. Clay soil is excellent as it slows down the flow of water. However, you can work with loam soil as long as it can hold water quite well.

Storing water via a rain garden is perfect for keeping your plants watered throughout the dry and humid seasons. Even in the summer, you’ll maintain a green lawn and lively-looking plants.

Use Your Downspout

Downspouts are integral to all households. Whether the house is a traditional Filipino bungalow, or a modern townhouse similar to what Camella Homes Calamba offers, downspouts are house features that help homeowners keep rainwater out of their roof and save it for washing or watering their plants.

Place a large container, such as a water barrel, below your downspout. If your downspout is a little too low to let your water container fit, connect a hose and use that to transport the rainwater to your barrel. You can also use smaller containers and buckets to carry your water. After the rain subsides, you’ll have stored water perfect for cleaning your car or bike, watering your lawn, and washing your walls and roof gutters.

Use Rain Chimes

Do you want to have a water fountain but don’t want to spend a ton on installing one in your garden? Rain chimes are decorative and sustainable alternatives to a water fountain or pond. Hang them below your roof gutter’s spouts and watch the water cascade down the chimes like a waterfall. Place a bucket or barrel below the chime to catch the water.

Install A Water Reservoir

If you’re after reducing a huge amount in your water bills, installing a water catchment system is a worthwhile investment you must make. Having a water reservoir helps you store water that can power your entire home.

A rainwater catchment system comprises a cistern, downpipes, and a large underground tank equipped with filters and pumps. When it rains, the cistern captures the water, then flows through the pipes where the filters sift sediments and debris from entering the main tank. Then, the pumps will push the filtered water through the downpipes leading to your shower, water taps, and toilet.

Installing a rainwater reservoir may be a hefty investment at first. However, you’ll save tons of water and money from your water bill. You’ll also do Mother Nature a favor by conserving water.

Collecting rainwater is a sustainable and affordable way to store water for cleaning or watering your plants. Take note of these four methods and see which ones will work for your home.

Miss USA Lindsey Coffey is Miss Earth 2020

Miss USA Lindsey Coffey was crowned Miss Earth 2020 held via virtual presentation on November 29, 2020 (Sunday morning in the Philippines).

In the 20-year eco-pageant since 2001, Coffey is the first American to win the Miss Earth title. She bested 83 other candidates from across the globe.

Air Run 2019 at CCP Complex | September 15, 2019

Takbo Para Sa Kalikasan holds its 3rd leg run of the four elements representing fire, water, air, and earth. Organized by Green Media Events, the year-long benefit run series aims to urge the public to partake in environmental conservation amid the drastic impacts of global warming.

JCI Manila holds "Run for the Mountains 2019" at McKinley West | July 7, 2019

Runners of all ages will have a fulfilling and invigorating time at this year’s Run for the Mountains charity run which is slated July 7, 2019 (Sunday) at McKinley West in Taguig City. Run for the Mountains is a unique fun run that aims to raise awareness and financial support for the Indigenous Peoples Group of the Philippines.

Water Run 2019 at CCP Complex | July 21, 2019

Takbo Para Sa Kalikasan holds its second leg run of the four elements representing fire, water, air, and earth. Organized by Green Media Events, the year-long benefit run series aims to urge the public to partake in environmental conservation amid the drastic impacts of global warming. 

NatGeo Earth Day Run 2019 at SM Mall of Asia Open Grounds | April 14, 2019

Earth Day Run 2019 is coming to the Philippines this April as National Geographic continues its campaign to reduce the usage of single-use plastics. The NatGeo Earth Day Run will take place on April 14, 2019 at The SM Mall of Asia Open Grounds. 

Fire Run 2019 - Takbo Para Sa Kalikasan at CCP Complex | May 5, 2019

Fire Run 2019 is the first of 4 legs of Takbo Para sa Kalikasan 2019 series to be held on May 5, 2019 (Sunday) at Liwasang Ulalim, CCP Complex in Pasay City. On its second year, the organizer (Green Media Events Company) encourage runners to be more pro-active and participate in the plogging activity (eco-friendly work out).

Earth Run "Para sa Kalikasan" at CCP Complex | November 18, 2018

Pinoy Aspiring Runners (PAR) holds the 4th and last installment of their 4-part series run, "Para sa Kalikasan Run." The Earth Run will be held on November 18, 2018 (Sunday) at Liwasang Ulalim, CCP Complex, Pasay City.

Miss Earth 2018: 90 candidates; celebrates 18 years of Beauties for a Cause

Another season of beauty and responsibility is underway as Miss Earth marks 18 years of promoting environmental awareness. Ninety (90) delegates from across the globe have made their way to Manila, each one poised to work towards a sustainable living.

The 18th edition of the premier beauty and environmental event promises to be another year of learning, sharing, promoting the beauty of their respective countries and their advocacies.