MANILA, PHILIPPINES – The Philippines is no stranger to extreme weather events. With more intense typhoons, stronger winds, and increased precipitation overwhelming our country the past few years, it came as no surprise that our archipelago has now been classified as one of the most vulnerable to climate change.
Real estate giant and sustainable developer, SM Development Corporation (SMDC), understands that adaptation and mitigation are the most appropriate steps to minimize loss of life and damage to property.
Sustainability as a foundation
Sustainability is ingrained and institutionalized in SMDC, with a strategy that focuses on economy, environment, and community.
Attention to the environment is most apparent as they highlight disaster-resilient features in infrastructure design, and make persistent efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, as well as the company’s carbon footprint.
This direction ultimately goes back to the company’s commitment to improve the lives of community members. With inclusivity at its very core, SMDC makes sure that its properties are affordable, which in turn, paves the way for more Filipinos to enjoy and embrace a sustainable, low-carbon footprint lifestyle.
As part of taking an active role in the 2030 target on the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), SMDC develops communities that are inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable (SDG # 11).
Sustainable building and living
More than just providing Filipinos with four walls and a roof over their heads, SMDC Chairman, Henry Sy Jr., envisions communities that enable its residents to live and thrive.
SMDC’s residential developments are guided by a comprehensive approach to sustainability: from site selection, to design and materials procurement, project maintenance practices, and indoor environmental quality.
True to this vision as well, SMDC residences are communities built in prime and accessible locations with integrated commercial establishments that make city life more convenient. Residents are also offered economic and lifestyle opportunities amid lush greeneries and wide, open spaces. With master-planned designs, more Filipinos can come home to a hotel-like abode that not only makes them feel good about themselves, but also serves as a tool for them to attain improved quality of lives.
At least 20 percent and up to 60 percent of each development’s land area is devoted to open spaces. Such amenities support overall health and wellness, including parks and play areas, as well as pocket gardens. In addition, landscaping and vegetation reduce solar heat gain within each site.
SMDC also implements solid waste management principles. Waste segregation and correct onward disposal are strictly followed, and materials recovery facilities are utilized on-site to uphold recycling practices. There are also centralized sewage treatment plants or dedicated septic tanks, as appropriate.
Water efficiency, on the other hand, is maximized through a rainwater collection system used to clean common areas and irrigate landscaped gardens. SMDC’s carefully-designed landscaping also makes conservation easier, with local plants and foliage that require less water to be kept in shape.
SMDC puts great emphasis on energy efficiency too, as its developments are designed to be naturally lit and ventilated. Apart from utilizing power-saving lighting fixtures such as LED and solar-powered lights, there are also occupancy sensors for common areas, and architectural designs that overall exude a breath of fresh air.
Finally, with 24/7 state-of-the-art security systems, residents can feel safe, secure, and a lot more comfortable in their homes. Inner peace is definitely within reach, as SMDC’s communities are equipped with disaster-ready facilities, and a professional property management group trained for any situation.
Future-Ready Today
SMDC developments are deeply rooted in sustainable practices – from site identification to occupancy – further cementing its role as a pioneer contributor in sustainability efforts in line with the UN SDGs. The company continues to establish more ecologically-friendly, disaster- resilient, and future-ready homes, pushing the goal of 2030 forward and beyond.
To learn more about SMDC and its developments, log on to www.smdc.com
