SM Prime’s Bold Steps Towards a Net Zero Future: A Call for Climate Action

  Embracing Net Zero: The Philippines' Urgent Call to Climate Action

As typhoon season begins, recent extreme weather events have once again highlighted the Philippines' vulnerability to natural disasters. With climate change intensifying these events, the nation must take a stand in the global effort to achieve net zero emissions. The recent typhoon serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need for the Philippines to play an active role in combating climate change, not just to protect its citizens but to contribute meaningfully to global solutions.

Net zero refers to balancing the amount of greenhouse gases emitted with an equivalent amount removed from the atmosphere. For the Philippines, a country frequently hit by severe weather, achieving net zero is a critical step in boosting climate resilience. The recent storm makes it clear: the country cannot afford to be a bystander in the global climate action movement. Instead, it must be a proactive leader, advocating for and implementing strategies that contribute to the global net zero target.


Transitioning to Renewable Energy

One of the most effective ways for the Philippines to make a significant impact is by harnessing its rich natural resources to transition to renewable energy. By investing more in solar, wind, and hydroelectric power, the country can reduce its dependence on fossil fuels and, in turn, lower its carbon footprint. This shift is not just crucial for achieving net zero—it also strengthens the country's energy infrastructure, making it more resilient to disruptions caused by extreme weather.

SM Prime’s Commitment to Net Zero

Recognizing the urgency of both climate change mitigation and adaptation, SM Prime Holdings, Inc. is leading by example. As part of its sustainability strategy, the company is investing 10% of its Capital Expenditure (CAPEX) in sustainability and disaster resilience design.

A key initiative in this effort is SM Prime’s commitment to achieving net zero emissions by 2040. As the Philippines' top integrated sustainable property developer, SM Prime has pledged to the Science-Based Targets Initiative (SBTi), a globally recognized standard for corporate decarbonization. This makes SM Prime one of the few corporations in the country to set such ambitious goals. Through a collaboration with the World Wide Fund for Nature Philippines (WWF-PH) under the Corporates for a Better Planet Initiative (CBPI) program, SM Prime is ensuring that its near-term targets for 2030 and long-term goals for 2040 align with the global goal of net zero by 2050.


Concrete Actions Towards Sustainability

SM Prime’s journey towards net zero is backed by concrete steps. The company has installed onsite solar panels across various properties and formed strategic partnerships to source renewable energy. These efforts not only reduce SM Prime's carbon footprint but also set a powerful example for other businesses to follow, showing that sustainable practices can be successfully integrated into day-to-day operations.

Committed to advancing every person’s right to a better quality of life, SM Prime is focused on climate action, disaster risk reduction, biodiversity protection, and corporate social responsibility programs. Climate action remains at the core of SM Prime's sustainability agenda, guiding their vision of creating resilient and sustainable communities.

Eco-Friendly Initiatives at SM Supermalls

SM Supermalls has embraced several eco-friendly initiatives, such as enhancing natural lighting and improving insulation in their buildings. These efforts reduce the need for artificial lighting, heating, and cooling, making mall operations more energy-efficient and environmentally friendly. Furthermore, by adopting solar panels and other renewable energy sources, SM Supermalls is significantly lowering its carbon footprint, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and lessening its reliance on non-renewable energy.

The time for action is now, and the Philippines, along with key players like SM Prime, must lead the way toward a sustainable, net-zero future. As climate challenges intensify, bold steps in renewable energy and sustainability will be the key to safeguarding the nation’s future.

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