For many, waste disposal is a matter of “out of sight, out of mind.” But landfills are more than just distant heaps of trash—they pose serious health risks to nearby communities and are a major source of greenhouse gas emissions, particularly from decomposing food waste.
At SM Supermalls, waste segregation isn’t just symbolic. The Recyclable, Disposable, and Compostable (RDC) bins are the first step in a comprehensive strategy to minimize landfill impact and move towards a net-zero waste future.
Recycling for a Circular Economy
SM’s commitment to recycling is evident through initiatives like the Trash to Cash recycling market, which collects over 1 million kilograms of plastic, paper, and other recyclable materials annually. By promoting a circular economy, SM reduces solid waste pollution while encouraging communities to rethink waste as a resource.
Beyond consumer participation, SM actively integrates waste segregation at the corporate level. Through a partnership with Trust International Paper Corporation, bulk paper waste from its operations is collected and recycled. This effort alone has prevented an amount of waste equivalent to the annual output of over 3,000 households from reaching landfills, ensuring valuable materials are properly processed and repurposed.
Converting Non-Recyclables into Sustainable Fuel
For waste that cannot be recycled, SM Prime has taken an innovative approach. In partnership with Japanese environmental solutions company GUUN, it established SM GUUN Environmental Company, Inc. (SGECI), which operates a state-of-the-art waste-to-fuel facility.
The process transforms non-recyclable plastics, used rags, and contaminated paper into “fluff fuel”—an alternative fuel used by leading cement manufacturers such as APO Cement, Holcim, and Taiheiyo Cement. This process, known as co-processing, not only replaces coal but also integrates the ash byproduct into cement production, creating a truly sustainable waste solution.
In 2024 alone, SM GUUN converted over 6,000 metric tons of non-recyclable waste into fluff fuel—equivalent to the annual waste output of 12,000 households. Recognizing its impact, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) recently visited the facility, acknowledging its role in reducing carbon footprints and advancing efficient solid waste management.
Composting for Urban Greenery
Food waste is another major contributor to landfill emissions, but SM is working on an innovative solution. SM GUUN is currently testing a Singaporean composting system that rapidly processes food waste into nutrient-rich soil within just 48 hours, reducing waste volume by over 70%.
This compost is repurposed for gardens, parks, and even golf courses, not only reducing landfill pressure but also contributing to soil health and urban greenery.
Engaging Communities in Waste Reduction
Beyond internal waste management, SM actively engages customers through initiatives like:
• Plastic Waste Collection Program – Encouraging responsible plastic disposal
• E-Waste Collection – Providing proper channels for disposing of old electronics
• Clean Water and Coastal Cleanup Drives – Raising awareness about environmental conservation
These efforts align with national policies such as RA 9003 (Ecological Solid Waste Management Act) and RA 11898 (Extended Producer Responsibility Act), reinforcing SM’s commitment to supporting government-led sustainability initiatives.
A Shared Responsibility
Achieving a #SMWasteFreeFuture is not just a corporate goal—it’s a collective mission. From properly sorting waste with Bin It Right to embracing innovative waste-to-energy solutions, SM is building an ecosystem where waste is redefined as a resource.
By working together, we can make the dream of a waste-free future a reality.
To learn more about SM’s solid waste management initiatives, visit SM Cares.