Every first Friday and Saturday of the month, SM Supermalls champions sustainability through its nationwide Trash to Cash (TTC) recycling market. A flagship initiative under the Waste-Free Future campaign, TTC encourages individuals to trade recyclable waste for cash, turning environmental responsibility into economic opportunity. By reducing waste and promoting a culture of recycling, the program empowers communities while contributing to a cleaner, greener future.
Launched in 2007, Trash to Cash promotes waste segregation, recycling, and environmental awareness. Today, it is held in 87 SM malls nationwide, offering a convenient platform for shoppers, tenants, and local communities to actively participate in sustainability efforts. By ensuring that recyclables are properly sorted and repurposed, TTC plays a key role in the circular economy and reinforces SM Supermalls’ commitment to environmental stewardship.
Making Sustainability Rewarding and Impactful
The impact of Trash to Cash has been remarkable. In 2024 alone, the program collected over 12 million kilograms of recyclables, generating ₱28 million in earnings for participants. This is equivalent to saving 204,000 trees (if all recyclables were paper) or reducing 18,000 tons of carbon emissions (if all recyclables were plastic).
More than just a recycling drive, TTC empowers individuals, organizations, and businesses by making sustainability both practical and rewarding.
“TTC is more than just a recycling program—it’s a movement that enables communities to turn environmental responsibility into real opportunities. By participating, people not only contribute to waste reduction but also gain financial incentives, proving that sustainability can be both impactful and rewarding,” said SM Supermalls President Steven Tan.
Join the Movement: How to Participate
As climate challenges grow, programs like Trash to Cash show that small, collective actions can create a significant impact. By joining this initiative, individuals help reduce waste pollution, support the circular economy, and take an active role in shaping a more sustainable future.
Here’s how to take part:
1. Segregate your recyclable waste, including paper, plastic bottles, and other reusable materials.
2. Drop them off at designated Trash to Cash stations in participating SM malls nationwide.
3. Exchange recyclables for cash and contribute to a cleaner, greener future.
For more details about TTC and other sustainability programs under SM’s Waste-Free Future campaign, visit the SM Supermalls official website or follow @SMCaresOfficial on social media.