SM Supermalls Pilots Plastic Waste Collection Program in SM Megamall

SM Supermalls, through its CSR arm SM Cares, has partnered with Plastic Credit Exchange (PCEx) to pilot the Plastic Waste Collection Program. This initiative aims to help communities dispose of their plastic waste more responsibly and inspire the public to be more mindful when it comes to plastic use.

Through the support of Colgate-Palmolive Philippines, the program will kick-off in SM Megamall (Located at RDU Supermarket, Bldg. B), on February 10, 2021. Mall shoppers, communities, and offices within the area are encouraged to bring their empty, clean, and dried plastic waste every day, from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM only.

The project promotes responsible plastic waste disposal by encouraging individuals to clean and dry all kinds of plastic waste they generate at home. Acceptable types of plastics include PET (soda bottles, furniture), HDPE (bottles, grocery bags, pouches), LDPE (grocery bags, containers, dispensing bottles), PP (car parts, food containers, dishware), and PS (cafeteria trays, plastic utensils, toys), as well as all other plastic types except for PVC.

Nestlé Philippines is meanwhile gearing up to introduce the same collection scheme in SM MOA, SM North and SM Fairview.

The Plastic Waste Collection Program kicks off on February 10, 2021 in SM Megamall.

“Our partnership with SM Supermalls and SM Cares will provide a more extensive opportunity for Filipinos to dispose of their plastic waste responsibly. The PCEx Team remains committed to furthering programs and channels to help save the environment. We all have the collective responsibility to do our part for the planet, and this plastic waste collection program is just one of the many initiatives lined up,” said Richard de Guzman, PCEx Sustainable Community Development Manager.

“Through the Plastic Waste Collection Program, we are hoping to help instill an eco-conscious mindset among Filipinos when it comes to their use and disposal of plastic. This will be a good community-based initiative on responsible solid waste management, and we are grateful for the partnership with Plastic Credit Exchange,” said SM Cares Program Director on Environment Engr. Liza B. Silerio.

Of the plastic collected, those that are recyclable will be sent to vetted partners and reconverted into new useful products. Whatever cannot be recycled will be used as an alternative fuel to coal in cement co-processing; i.e. the use of suitable waste materials for the purpose of energy and resource recovery and resultant reduction in the use of non-renewable resources. Co-processing is recognized by the UNEP as the environmentally preferred option for managing end-of-life plastics.

Visit this article on PCX's website here.