SM Hotels and Convention Centers, part of SM Prime Holdings Inc., on Thursday announced the recycling of more than 10,000 yards of used hotel linens through its sustainability initiative launched in 2024. The volume, equivalent to fabric for over 500 hotel rooms, demonstrates the environmental and social benefits of circular design.
The program, called Tela Tales, transforms discarded bedsheets, banquet linens, and towels into handcrafted products such as bags, home items, and the new Snuggle Mates plush toys. These toys, designed by social enterprise Brave Story, feature 11 animal characters inspired by SM Hotels properties nationwide.
Leah Magallanes, SM Hotels vice president for sustainability and quality, highlighted that over 1,000 recycled items have been produced, earning recognition from local governments in Iloilo, Bacolod, and other cities for reducing waste and fostering community partnerships. Sewing of the products involves 55 women volunteers from partner communities, supporting local livelihoods while diverting waste from landfills.
SM Hotels plans to expand Tela Tales with new product lines and more locations. The initiative supports the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 17 on partnerships, while reducing costs, enhancing employee engagement, and strengthening community ties.
