Everyday should be Earth Day. Our planet is home to countless species, each playing a vital role in ecosystems. The destruction of habitats and overexploitation of resources threaten biodiversity, which in turn disrupts the balance of nature which is why the celebration of Earth Day is crucial as it encourages individuals, communities, and governments to work together toward creating a sustainable and healthy environment for current and future generations.

SM Supermalls continues to champion the mindset that sustainability is not just a one-day commitment—it is a lifestyle. In celebration of Earth Day 2025, SM invites everyone to be part of simple, everyday actions that make a big difference for the planet. Through programs, eco-friendly infrastructure, and community engagement, SM's malls have become one of the leading platforms for greener living.

"Our malls are more than shopping destinations—they are spaces where people and the planet can thrive together," said Engr. Liza Silerio, Vice President for Corporate Compliance and Program Director of SM Cares for Environment. "Through programs that are easy to join, SM makes it possible for every visitor to take part in a more sustainable future."

Here are seven ways SM is turning its pledge into everyday impact—and how you may take part:

1. Plug in your EV—for free

Currently, there are 123 EV charging stations across 69 malls, SM has disbursed over 14,500 kWh of clean electricity to electric vehicle users, with 50 more chargers planned in 2025. It is free, easy to access, and part of SM's commitment to low-emission mobility.

An electric vehicle charges at SM North EDSA's Electric Vehicle Charging Station—one of 123 across 69 SM Supermalls nationwide. Photo source: SM Supermalls

2. Walk into Solar-Powered Spaces

SM currently operates 47 malls and properties with solar installations, generating 27.6 GWh of clean energy in 2024 alone—the equivalent of removing over 4,100 cars off the road. With a goal of 100MWp rooftop solar capacity by 2027, more solar rollouts are planned for 2025.

SM City Tanza powers up with 2,286 solar panels, generating a peak capacity of 1,257.30 kW—part of SM Supermalls' commitment to clean and sustainable energy. Photo source: SM Supermalls

3. Experience green malls with natural lighting

From Sky Gardens and skylights that allow natural light to brighten spaces and reduce electricity use, to LED lighting and motion sensor escalators, every corner of the mall is designed with energy efficiency in mind. SM also contributes 110 MW of capacity to the DOE's Interruptible Load Program.

Natural light streams through the skylights of SM Supermalls, helping reduce electricity consumption while creating a bright, welcoming space. Photo source: SM Supermalls

4. Support a waste-free future

Launched in 2023, SM's #SMWasteFreeFuture campaign enforces proper waste segregation across all mall tenants through RDC (Recyclable, Disposable, Compostable) bin systems. Internally, SM is also building a culture of sustainability among employees, proving that change starts from within. 

SM employees lead by example as they properly segregate waste using the RDC (Recyclable, Disposable, Compostable) bin system—showing that building a #SMWasteFreeFuture starts from within. Photo source: SM Supermalls

5. Turn trash into treasure at Trash-to-Cash

Held every first Friday and Saturday of the month, this recycling market has helped exchange over 1 million kilograms of recyclables annually across SM malls nationwide. Visitors may bring paper, plastic, metal, or even old appliances—and exchange them for cash.

Students weigh recyclables during SM Cares' Trash to Cash, showing that small actions may lead to a green future. Photo source: SM Supermalls

6. Recycle smart with plastic and E-Waste Collection

Drop off used plastics at 15 participating SM malls and e-waste bins at Cyberzone areas nationwide. So far, these programs have diverted 63,874 kg of plastics and over 11,000 kg of e-waste from landfills—thanks to partnerships with Friends of Hope and Smart/PLDT.

Mall customers drop off used plastic wastes at SM's Plastic Collection Program—showing that small actions may lead to a clean, green future for all. Also, unused and damaged electronic items are being let go through SM's E-Waste Collection located at Cyberzone. Photo source: SM Supermalls

7. Join coastal cleanups that protect our seas

In 2024, over 27,000 volunteers across 15 SM malls helped collect more than 157,000 kg of trash from coastlines and waterways. SM also initiates weekly and quarterly coastal cleanups, showing that when communities work together, the ripple effect reaches far and wide.

SM Bataan employee volunteers during the International Coastal Cleanup, working together to help protect our oceans. Photo source: SM Supermalls

From recycling programs to coastal cleanups, solar panels to EV charging stations, every small act adds up. Moreover, at SM, Earth Day is not just April 22—it is every day.