SM Prime Holdings (SM Prime) has taken significant steps toward promoting sustainable urban development by hosting the 7th annual Association of Pacific Rim Universities – Sustainable Cities and Landscapes (APRU-SCL) 2024 Conference and the 3rd International Conference on Human Settlements Planning and Development (ICHSPD). Held at SMX Convention Center Aura, this prestigious event, organized by the University of the Philippines Los Baños (UPLB), convened over 300 experts to discuss forward-thinking strategies for creating greener and more resilient urban landscapes. With the theme “Advancing Sustainable Cities and Communities Through Science, Technology, and Innovation,” the conference underscored the essential role of collaboration in addressing the complex challenges posed by urbanization.
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SM Prime’s participation in the event highlights its ongoing commitment to sustainability, as reflected in the involvement of top executives who shared insights on the company’s eco-conscious initiatives. SM Supermalls President Steven Tan emphasized the role that SM Supermalls plays as a leader in environmental sustainability and community engagement. He underscored the vision of Hans Sy, Chairman of the Executive Committee, whose advocacy for environmental protection and disaster resilience has become a guiding principle for the company.
“Our malls are more than just shopping centers; they are dynamic public spaces, woven into the daily lives of millions of Filipinos. Our comprehensive environmental sustainability programs are deeply inspired by the vision of our Chairman of the Executive Committee, Mr. Hans Sy, a tireless advocate for environmental sustainability and disaster resilience,” Tan explained.
Tan further highlighted how SM Supermalls integrates science and technology into their sustainability initiatives, allowing them to develop innovative solutions that are embedded into the design and operation of their facilities. These efforts not only contribute to environmental protection but also align with the company’s broader commitment to building resilient, future-ready communities across the Philippines.
Jessica Bianca Sy, SM Prime and SM Development Corporation (SMDC) Lead Executive for Design, Innovation, and Strategy, reinforced the company’s focus on creating sustainable integrated properties that foster lively, thriving communities. SM Prime’s developments aim to enhance the quality of life of their residents while reducing their environmental footprint, pushing the boundaries of urban planning and property development in the country.
Another key aspect of SM Prime’s approach to sustainability is its emphasis on disaster preparedness. National Resilience Council (NRC) Executive Director Silvestre Barrameda Jr. presented the company's risk governance efforts through NRC’s “Resilience Local Government Unit Program (RLGUP),” which empowers local government units with the tools and frameworks to enhance their disaster resilience. This initiative, supported by scientific research, is a testament to SM Prime’s dedication to fostering resilience at both the community and national levels.
During the conference, the importance of partnerships in building sustainable and climate-resilient cities was further explored. In a breakout session led by Jonas Marie Dumdum, Senior Consultant and Sustainability Lead at Nomura Research Institute (NRI) Manila Branch, the discussion centered on the significance of collaboration across sectors. Katherine Custodio, Executive Director of World Wide Fund For Nature (WWF)-Philippines, emphasized that strong partnerships are key to driving climate resilience, stating that "any program that aims to build climate resilience requires strong partnerships and working together across all sectors.”
As SM Prime continues its journey toward sustainable urban development, its role as a catalyst for economic growth becomes increasingly apparent. Through its integrated property development projects, the company is committed to creating innovative, sustainable, and resilient cities of the future. These efforts not only address the immediate challenges of urbanization but also lay the foundation for a greener, more sustainable future for millions of people across the Philippines. SM Prime’s dedication to these principles ensures that it remains at the forefront of sustainable development in the region, leading by example and inspiring others to follow suit.
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