For years, many businesses have treated sustainability as separate from core operations. SM Investments takes a different view: sustainable practices are simply smart business decisions.
Timothy Daniels, consultant and head of sustainability and investor relations at SM Investments, shared this perspective during the recent MUFG NOW Manila forum. He explained SM no longer sees sustainable investments as an act of corporate social responsibility alone. Instead, these choices cut costs, boost operational dependability, and lower long-term business risks.
This approach runs across the entire SM group. Over 200,000 solar panels have been set up on SM properties. Its Carmen Copper Corporation in Cebu runs a 4.99-megawatt floating solar facility—the first of its kind in the Philippines—which could supply roughly 10 percent of the mine’s power needs. SM has also grown its renewable energy holdings through the Philippine Geothermal Production Company.
The group’s reach extends beyond its own assets. Through BDO Unibank, it supports sustainable projects nationwide: BDO has channeled about ₱1.2 trillion into sustainable financing, backing 71 renewable energy projects totaling 6,165 megawatts in capacity.
Managing sustainability across retail, banking, real estate, mining and other sectors brings unique challenges, as each industry requires tailored solutions. Daniels noted the parent company’s role is to guide all units, ensure solid implementation plans, and provide necessary support.
SM remains on course to cut its greenhouse gas emissions by 40 percent by 2040. “We keep seeking new ways to improve,” Daniels added. “Done right, sustainability strengthens your business, lifts efficiency, and secures your future.”
