SM Supermalls is expanding its plastic bottle collection scheme across the Philippines through a partnership with recycling technology company Sparklo.
The organisations are deploying SM Green Recycling Machines in 30 SM malls nationwide. The machines use reverse vending technology to collect plastic bottles from customers.
Users deposit eligible bottles and receive rewards in return. The initiative aims to make plastic collection easier while keeping recyclable materials in circulation.
The machines are now available in locations across several regions, including:
- Manila
- Batangas, Laguna and Cavite
- Bulacan and Pampanga
- Baguio, Pangasinan and La Union
- Rizal and Cebu
Wider efforts underway
The partnership forms part of SM Cares’ Environmental Sustainability Programme. It includes activities such as the Trash-to-Cash Programme and the Plastic Waste Collection Programme. The company also organises regular clean-up activities and supports the International Coastal Cleanup.
In 2025, 27 000 SM employees and volunteers collected more than 155 tonnes of waste. The activities involved 16 malls across the Philippines.
SM Mall of Asia and SM By the Bay also organise quarterly clean-ups in the bay area. Employees and volunteers from WWF Philippines participate in these activities.
Change is essential
The new recycling machines arrive as the Philippines considers changes to packaging waste management. Legislation introduced in May proposes mandatory labels for consumer packaging. The Philippine Recycling Labelling Act aims to standardise information about packaging materials and recyclability. It would also require disposal instructions on packaging. The bill remains pending.
The Philippines continues to face challenges in recovering plastic waste, currently recycling only around 9%.
Don't hesitate to contact us to share your input and ideas. Subscribe to the magazine or (free) newsletter.
