23/04/2026
SM: "Understanding Recyclables A Key Step in Strengthening the Circular Economy"
When you visit your favorite SM Supermalls, take a closer look at the trash bins that invite you to join the movement toward a Waste-Free Future. Under the SM Green Movement, the Recyclable-Disposable-Compostable (RDC) Bins are designed to recover reusable while keeping waste out of landfills and oceans through mindful waste management.
Demystifying the Recyclables
As its core, recyclables are simple three categories: Bottles, Cans, and Cartons. Each can go beyond single use and be returned to manufacturers for a second life:
Bottles - These can be glass of plastic (PET). Glass bottles can be recycled indefinitely and are returned to bottlers such as San Miguel Yamamura and Asia Brewery Incorporated to be washed and reused for beverages. PET bottles, a highly sustainable plastic, are collected by partners like Coca-Cola's PETvalue and Nature Spring's NS Sustainability Solutions. They can either be recycled into new beverages bottles or processed into polyester for clothing production.
Cans - Made of tin or aluminum, cans are valuable recyclables that can be reused multiple times. Recycling can reduce manufacturers' energy costs compared to producing new ones from scratch.
Cartons - Among the most sustainable products in the country, cartons are easy to source locally and remain competitively priced. Even when recycled, they retain high value, as producing paper products from recycled cartons requires only 10% new material.
From the promise of "recyclable" to its fulfillment as completely "recycled"
High-value recyclables are easily wasted if not disposed of properly. By using SM's Recyclable bins, you can help return these materials to the market, thanks to partners who recover and reuse them.
A true circular economy is within reach when we all mindfully sort and dispose of bottles, cans, and cartons. Through simple, collective action, everyone can contribute to protecting the environment and creating a greener future.
