SM Group drives sustainable development through local partnerships and economy practices

As sustainability becomes an essential focus for businesses, SM Group is setting the bar high with impactful initiatives designed to protect the environment and uplift local communities. Through partnerships and innovative practices, SM Group demonstrates how companies can create positive environmental and economic change. A recent collaboration with the Negros Economic Development Foundation (NEDF) showcases these efforts, as SM Hotels and Conventions Corp. (SMHCC) and Park Inn by Radisson Bacolod make strides in sustainable sourcing, waste management, and community support.

A key pillar of SM Group’s sustainability initiatives is the commitment to a circular economy. In this model, waste is minimized, resources are reused, and natural systems are regenerated. SMHCC has integrated this approach into its operations by sourcing locally grown fruits, vegetables, herbs, and dairy for its kitchens. By prioritizing local produce, SMHCC not only reduces the carbon footprint of its supply chain but also directly supports farmers across Negros Island.

Beyond sourcing, SMHCC and Park Inn Bacolod take a proactive approach to waste management by converting food scraps into organic compost. Rather than adding to landfills, food waste is transformed into nutrient-rich compost that enriches the soil on local farms. This practice nourishes the land, strengthens crop production, and ultimately benefits the surrounding ecosystem—a true embodiment of the circular economy in action. Hundreds of farmers on Negros Island benefit from this initiative, as improved soil health boosts crop resilience and enhances productivity.

To further strengthen the agricultural community, SM Foundation, a philanthropic arm of the SM Group, offers specialized programs like “Kabalikat sa Kabuhayan.” This initiative empowers farmers with training in sustainable agriculture, equipping them with skills to enhance productivity and adopt eco-friendly practices. In addition to technical knowledge, SM Foundation connects farmers with markets, creating direct sales opportunities at SM Malls. The weekend markets hosted at SM malls provide farmers with access to a broader customer base, enabling them to increase their income and build resilience against economic challenges.

These efforts also foster a deeper connection between urban consumers and local farmers, as shoppers at SM malls can support local agriculture while enjoying fresh, locally-sourced products. SM’s weekend markets thus create a mutually beneficial system—where farmers earn fair income, and consumers gain access to quality produce while supporting sustainable practices.

Together, these initiatives exemplify SM Group’s holistic approach to sustainability. By promoting a circular economy, supporting local farmers, and creating market access, SM Group shows how companies can lead the way in environmental stewardship and community empowerment. Through collaborations with organizations like NEDF and impactful programs, SM Group sets a powerful example of corporate responsibility that prioritizes people, the planet, and sustainable progress for future generations.

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This article is brought to you by SM Group.