SM Prime ramps up water stewardship to build climate resilience
SM Southmall in the late 90’s. Located in the water-challenged area of Las Pinas, the mall was the first to have a sewage treatment plant (STP) for water recycling. It opened to the public in 1995, followed by SM Bacoor in 1997, saving a significant volume of water otherwise used for flushing.
SM Prime Holdings Inc. is ramping up its water stewardship efforts as part of its broader environmental sustainability strategy, emphasizing long-term resilience amid growing climate and water supply challenges.
Under its Water for Tomorrow campaign, SM Prime said its approach goes beyond basic water recycling and efficiency measures, positioning water security as both an environmental responsibility and a strategic investment that benefits communities and the ecosystem.
A community solution. At the launch of SM City Baguio’s Rainwater Treatment Facility (RTF), innovation meets sustainability and sets a benchmark for water efficiency.
With 89 malls nationwide, SM Supermalls has implemented large-scale yet practical water management systems designed to build long-term capacity against future water disruptions. These include circular water-use practices that reflect the interconnected nature of mall operations and surrounding communities.
SM Supermalls began installing sewage treatment plants nearly three decades ago, ahead of regulatory requirements, and has since invested heavily in low-flow fixtures and water-saving technologies to curb unnecessary water consumption. In 2023, the company opened its first rainwater treatment facility in a mall in Baguio City, converting rainwater into a potable resource and easing pressure on the local water grid.
SM Cares engages communities, mallgoers, and tenants in water conservation initiatives that inspire mindful consumption and collective action.
Beyond infrastructure, SM Prime said its malls serve as “living sustainability classrooms,” where mallgoers, employees, and tenant-partners are exposed to water, waste, and energy conservation programs. The company also partners with non-government organizations, government agencies, and civic groups to widen public engagement on water sustainability through its extensive mall network.