SM Prime and DENR Collaborate for Clean Air

In an important move towards supporting the Philippine Clean Air Act of 1999 (RA 8749), SM Prime Holdings (SMPH) has collaborated with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) to enhance air quality monitoring through the provision of Air Quality Monitoring Equipment (AQME). This groundbreaking initiative attempts to properly measure and regulate ambient air pollution levels.

The Environmental Management Bureau-National Capital Region (EMB-NCR) of DENR is in charge of the Adopt-a-Continuous Ambient Air Monitoring System (CAMS) initiative, which focuses on comprehensive air pollution control. In line with this, SMPH incorporates innovation and technology into its environmental stewardship activities, demonstrating its dedication to improving the communities it serves.

The partnership was formalized by a historic Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) signed on November 26 during DENR's Airshed Governing Board Year-End Meeting in Cubao. Under the five-year agreement, SMPH has committed to a P7 million donation, which includes the installation of a CAMS unit on an SMPH-owned lot at the Villa Beatriz Extension, Commonwealth Avenue, Brgy. Matandang Balara in Quezon City. 

In a special statement, SM Supermalls Vice President and Sustainability and Resilience Lead, Engr. Liza Silerio stressed the need for air-quality initiatives:

“There is a need for an air quality program and this type of equipment to raise awareness about public health and the importance of clean air. It enables us to monitor pollution levels more effectively and implement data-driven solutions.”

Engr. Silerio also highlighted the role of the private sector: “It is an honor for us at SM to partner with and support DENR’s programs toward a healthier, cleaner, and more sustainable environment.”

CAMS's real-time data is critical for assisting local governments and communities in understanding air quality trends, identifying pollution sources, and implementing effective air health initiatives. For air quality updates, visit https://air.emb.gov.ph/ambient-air-quality-monitoring.

SMPH and its business divisions promote clean air through a variety of programs, such as pedestrian and transportation-friendly properties, the Bike-Friendly Malls program, which includes nearly 6,000 bike parking spaces, 19.6 kilometers of bike lanes, and a 2.1-hectare biking trail. SM Supermalls also provides electric car charging stations in 67 sites and participates in tree planting initiatives.

As a recognized responsible property developer, SMPH is committed to attaining its Net Zero by 2040 target through decarbonization activities such as effective waste management, renewable energy use, and investments in sustainability and catastrophe risk resilience.