SM Prime pushed sustainability via Water for Tomorrow thrust

As water scarcity becomes an increasingly urgent global issue, SM Prime Holdings Inc. (SM Prime), the real estate arm of the Sy Family’s conglomerate, is leading efforts to ensure sustainable water management through its Water for Tomorrow campaign.

With urban growth and climate change threatening freshwater resources, the property developer has made water conservation a priority in its developments for over three decades.

“As businesses face growing water challenges, we must take action to secure our Water for Tomorrow,” said Hans T. Sy, SM Prime executive committee chairman.

“Water stewardship is an investment in our future. We must move beyond conservation and prioritize resource protection, waste reduction, and water security for future generations,” he added.

SM Prime embeds water conservation measures and efficient systems across its building operations.

61% used water recycled

The company has invested in sustainable water technologies aimed at reducing freshwater use and easing the demand for municipal water supplies. In 2023, SM Prime reported a total water consumption of 7.2 million cubic meters, with 61 percent of that water being recycled.

Notably, more than a billion gallons of recycled water are used across its mall operations. SM Supermalls uses this recycled water for cleaning, sanitation, plant care and cooling air conditioning towers. The company also uses innovative water-saving technologies, such as low-flow fixtures, to regulate water consumption.

Sustainable practices have been expanded throughout the group. For instance, SM Offices’ E-Com Centers in the Mall of Asia Complex feature sewage treatment plants that recycle greywater. SM Development Corp.’s Sea and Shore Residences also utilize rainwater harvesting and donate treated water for greening projects within the MoA Complex.

SM Hotels and Convention Corp. has made significant strides in water conservation. At Pico Sands Hotel, freshwater consumption was reduced by 36 percent, achieving 52 percent water reuse. Pico de Loro Beach and Country Club also achieved 41 percent water reuse.

Additionally, SM Prime’s luxury estates in Hamilo Coast, Batangas have a desalination plant that supports sustainable water management and eco-tourism.