SM Supermalls Leads the Way in Sustainable Mall Design and Eco-Friendly Urban Living

There’s nothing quite like strolling through a modern mall that seamlessly blends shopping, relaxation, and nature. At SM Supermalls, every visit is more than a transaction—it’s an experience thoughtfully designed with comfort, sustainability, and community in mind. As cities become increasingly urbanized, SM continues to set the standard for green infrastructure and environmental responsibility, creating malls that not only serve shoppers but also contribute to a healthier, more livable planet.

SM North EDSA houses the first Sky Garden in an SM mall, highlighting endemic plants and water features that bring nature onto a rooftop.

Designing Malls for People and the Planet

At the core of SM’s green vision is a people-centric design philosophy. From wide walkways and natural ventilation to pocket gardens and rooftop greenery, SM Supermalls are built for both convenience and climate care.

Take the SM Mall of Asia (MOA) as an example. Its expansive arcades and the MOA Sky feature open-air corridors that invite guests to enjoy the ocean breeze while dining or walking. These thoughtfully designed spaces reduce the need for artificial cooling and promote outdoor social experiences.

Over at SM North EDSA, the groundbreaking Sky Garden was the first of its kind in an SM mall. Elevated above the busy thoroughfares of Quezon City, the Sky Garden integrates native plants and water features, acting as a natural buffer against urban heat. Likewise, SM Aura in Taguig continues this trend with its rooftop gardens and eco-conscious architecture, offering cool, green spaces amid the city sprawl.

These nature-integrated designs are not only visually soothing but are also proven to lower indoor temperatures, improve air quality, and encourage eco-friendly habits among mallgoers.

Promoting Bike-Friendly Cities

As part of its commitment to sustainable urban mobility, SM Supermalls has become a champion of bike-friendly infrastructure in the Philippines. Across its properties, the company has installed over 5,000 bike parking slots, encouraging citizens to swap short car trips for bicycle commutes.

Cycling is a powerful climate solution: replacing car trips with bikes can reduce carbon emissions by up to 90%. SM further supports the biking community with secure parking, safety campaigns, and cycling events such as Bike Fest at SM Seaside City Cebu, empowering Filipinos to adopt greener, healthier lifestyles.

Bikers enjoy the convenience of secure parking as SM Supermalls champions eco-friendly transport solutions.

Greener Spaces with Native Flora

In various SM malls, endemic plant species are thoughtfully incorporated into landscaping plans. These native plants serve a dual purpose: beautifying the mall environment while improving air quality and supporting local biodiversity. Designed for more than just aesthetics, these green areas help filter airborne pollutants and create habitats for urban wildlife, making SM malls eco-friendly oases in the city.

Supporting Sustainable Transportation

To reduce reliance on private vehicles, SM Supermalls has built transport terminals that connect shoppers to public transportation systems like buses, jeepneys, and UV Express. By improving access to sustainable transport options, SM helps reduce both traffic congestion and the city’s overall carbon footprint.

Powering the Shift to Electric Vehicles (EVs)

In a major step towards a cleaner transportation future, Electric Vehicle Charging Stations (EVCS) have been installed in 69 SM malls nationwide. This proactive move supports the growing adoption of EVs in the Philippines.

Electric vehicles emit up to 60% fewer greenhouse gases than their gasoline-powered counterparts. By offering EVCS infrastructure, SM Supermalls is helping accelerate the transition to low-emission transport, making it more accessible for Filipino consumers.

Real-Time Air Quality Monitoring

SM’s efforts go beyond infrastructure. In partnership with Quezon City, SM Prime Holdings has established an air quality monitoring system that provides real-time data to the public. This initiative empowers communities with information about pollution levels and supports long-term strategies for urban environmental improvement.

With this system in place, both government and citizens can track air quality trends, take action when necessary, and raise awareness about pollution’s impact on public health.