SM Supermalls is ramping up its efforts to promote environmental sustainability in urban centers, integrating green infrastructure across its properties to improve air quality, support eco-friendly transport, and create healthier, more livable cities.

As the retail giant marks its 40th anniversary, SM Supermalls emphasized its commitment to developing mall spaces that serve not only commercial needs but also environmental and community well-being.

“Shopping isn’t just about transactions—it’s about enjoying spaces designed for comfort, sustainability, and a healthier environment,” the company said in a statement.

Among its key initiatives are people-centric design principles seen in locations such as SM Mall of Asia, where open arcades and breezy walkways promote outdoor movement and reduce reliance on air conditioning. SM Aura and SM North EDSA’s Sky Garden incorporate native vegetation and water features to reduce ambient heat, lower indoor temperatures, and improve urban air quality.

SM has also expanded its bike-friendly infrastructure, now offering more than 5,000 bike parking slots nationwide. The initiative supports climate-friendly commuting alternatives. According to studies, short trips converted from cars to bicycles can reduce carbon emissions by up to 90%.

Some SM malls also feature endemic flora to improve air filtration and encourage local biodiversity, creating natural habitats in urban areas while enhancing green space aesthetics.

To further reduce carbon footprints, SM’s transport terminals are designed to support public transportation use by providing direct access to buses, jeepneys, and other transit options. The company says this approach helps alleviate traffic congestion and promotes cleaner air in densely populated areas.

In line with the global shift to cleaner transport, SM Supermalls has installed Electric Vehicle Charging Stations (EVCS) in 69 malls nationwide. The company cited data showing that EVs emit up to 60% fewer greenhouse gases compared to traditional gasoline-powered vehicles.

SM is also involved in air quality monitoring, partnering with Quezon City to establish a real-time data tracking system accessible to the public. The initiative enables local communities and stakeholders to monitor pollution levels and engage in solutions for cleaner urban environments.

The company’s broader sustainability roadmap includes initiatives on waste management, water and energy conservation, and disaster resilience, reinforcing its position as a long-term partner in community development.

Founded in 1985, SM Supermalls has grown into one of the country’s leading retail developers, operating numerous malls across the Philippines. As it celebrates four decades of service, the company says it remains focused on building greener, more resilient urban spaces for future generations.