Shoppers visiting SM Supermalls are being encouraged to take part in environmental sustainability efforts by properly using designated waste bins installed across mall properties.
Under the SM Green Movement, Recyclable-Disposable-Compostable (RDC) bins have been introduced to help recover reusable materials while reducing waste that ends up in landfills and oceans. The initiative promotes mindful waste management and aims to build a culture of environmental responsibility among the public.
At the core of the campaign is a simple message: recyclables fall into three main categoriesโbottles, cans, and cartonsโeach of which can be repurposed and reintroduced into production cycles.
Bottles may be made of glass or plastic, particularly polyethylene terephthalate (PET). Glass bottles can be recycled indefinitely and are returned to manufacturers such as San Miguel Yamamura and Asia Brewery Incorporated for cleaning and reuse.
Meanwhile, PET bottles are collected by partners like Coca-Cola PETValue Philippines and Nature Spring NS Sustainability Solutions, where they are transformed into new bottles or processed into polyester used in clothing production.
Cans, typically made of aluminum or tin, are also highly recyclable and can be reused multiple times. Recycling these materials significantly reduces energy consumption compared to producing new ones from raw resources.
Cartons are likewise considered among the most sustainable packaging materials. They are widely available locally and remain cost-efficient. Even after recycling, cartons retain high value, as producing paper products from them requires only about 10 percent new material.
SM emphasized that recyclables can easily go to waste if not disposed of properly. By using designated recyclable bins, mall-goers help ensure that these materials are collected, processed, and returned to the market through recycling partners.
The initiative underscores that achieving a circular economy is possible through simple, collective actions. Proper waste segregation, even in small daily habits, can contribute significantly to environmental protection and a greener future.