For the 17th consecutive year, SM Supermalls reaffirmed its continued commitment to environmental sustainability by joining the 2025 Earth Hour movement, a global initiative led by the World Wildlife Fund (WWF).
On March 22, from 8:30 pm to 9:30 pm, SM malls across the country participated in the symbolic lights-off event, encouraging customers, tenants, and employees to “Give an Hour for Earth” by taking simple yet impactful actions to protect the planet.
A Collective Effort for a Sustainable Future
SM Supermalls took part in the Global Lights Switch Off, reducing energy consumption and raising awareness about climate change. According to PwC Isla Lipana and Co., the total energy saved during the one-hour switch-off in 87 malls nationwide will be equivalent to 319,759 number of smartphones charged or 1.4 tons of waste recycled.
With this year’s Earth Hour theme of “Creating the Biggest Hour for Earth,” beyond turning off non-essential lights, SM Cares encouraged the public to spend their 60 minutes engaging in sustainable activities. From musical performances, arts and craft to fitness activities, shoppers experienced an hour away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and enjoyed a soulful night with live music, an enhanced well-being after a good run and other eco-friendly events for the environment.
Beyond Earth Hour: SM Cares’ Commitment to Sustainability
SM Supermalls’ Earth Hour participation is just one of its many sustainability efforts. Through SM Cares, the company champions programs that encourage responsible waste management and environmental stewardship, such as the Trash to Cash recycling market, Plastic Waste Collection and E-waste Collection initiatives. Mobilizing thousands of volunteers, the International Coastal Cleanup helps keep the Philippine shorelines free from waste pollution.
“Through Earth Hour and our year-round sustainability programs, SM remains committed to inspiring and enabling communities to take meaningful steps toward environmental conservation,” said Engr. Liza B. Silerio, SM Supermalls Vice President for Corporate Compliance Group and SM Cares Program Director for Environment and Sustainability.
Empowering the Next Generation of Climate Advocates
This year, SM also engaged students from National University and Asia Pacific College in creating a special social media campaign showcasing how they can “Give an Hour for Earth.” The video highlights the importance of disconnecting online to reconnect with the environment and the community.
SM Supermalls invites everyone to continue practicing sustainability beyond Earth Hour by making small yet impactful choices every day.