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Manila Bulletin devider Environment and Sustainability devider SM introduces Sparklo reverse vending machines to the Philippines for the first time ever

SM introduces Sparklo reverse vending machines to the Philippines for the first time ever

Published Mar 17, 2026 02:26 pm
SM Supermalls and Sparklo executives formalize their partnership during the official launch of Sparklo’s reverse vending machines in the Philippines, expanding the SM Green Recycling Machine program under the SM Green Movement.
SM Supermalls and Sparklo executives formalize their partnership during the official launch of Sparklo’s reverse vending machines in the Philippines, expanding the SM Green Recycling Machine program under the SM Green Movement.
SM Supermalls is strengthening its commitment to environmental sustainability through a new partnership with global cleantech company Sparklo. Expanding the reach of the SM Green Movement and the SM Green Recycling Machine (GRM) program, the partnership aims to make recycling more accessible, convenient, and rewarding for participating customers through SM malls nationwide.
The collaboration introduces Sparklo’s reverse vending machine technology in the Philippines for the first time, providing an innovative way for customers to recycle plastic bottles and cans while visiting SM malls.
“This initiative further elevates the role our malls play in ensuring a greener future, all for Filipinos. When we help make recycling accessible and rewarding, taking steps to protect the environment for a more sustainable tomorrow becomes as easy as stepping into your most-loved SM Supermall,” said Steven Tan, SM Supermalls President.
Technology for the Environment
The SM Green Recycling Machine program empowers communities by transforming every day mall visits into meaningful acts of environmental responsibility. By providing easily accessible avenues for customers to build the practice of recycling, the initiative helps divert plastic away from landfills while encouraging long-term sustainable habits among mallgoers. All collected plastics are properly processed and recycled, supporting SM Prime Holdings’ commitment to a waste-free future.
Customers simply place empty PET plastic bottles into the recycling machine, which collects and sorts the bottles for proper recycling while encouraging responsible waste disposal.
SM Supermalls President Steven Tan tests the Sparklo reverse vending machine, underscoring SM’s commitment to empowering communities to build everyday recycling habits.
SM Supermalls President Steven Tan tests the Sparklo reverse vending machine, underscoring SM’s commitment to empowering communities to build everyday recycling habits.
A Green Movement That Cares
The program is part of the SM Green Movement, the environmental sustainability platform of SM Supermalls that inspires communities to adopt greener lifestyles.
Under the program’s initial phase, 10 SM Green Recycling Machines have been deployed across selected SM malls nationwide, allowing customers to conveniently recycle PET plastic beverage bottles during their visits.
Participating locations include SM Mall of Asia, S Maison, SM Southmall, SM Aura, SM North Edsa, SM Megamall, The Podium, SM City San Lazaro, SM Seaside City Cebu, and SM Lanang.
The partnership with Sparklo will further scale this effort through the planned rollout of 30 additional recycling machines in more SM Supermalls across the Philippines.
“By combining innovative recycling technology with community participation, the SM - Sparklo partnership aims to strengthen the country’s recycling ecosystem while promoting responsible waste management practices,” said Ellen Quilas, Sparklo Country Manager.
A customer uses the SM Green Recycling Machine Powered by Sparklo—symbolizing how simple everyday actions can help build a waste‑free future, one recycled bottle at a time.
A customer uses the SM Green Recycling Machine Powered by Sparklo—symbolizing how simple everyday actions can help build a waste‑free future, one recycled bottle at a time.
A recycled‑plastic bin demonstrates how discarded bottles can be transformed into useful community assets—turning waste into purpose and supporting more sustainable habits for all.
A recycled‑plastic bin demonstrates how discarded bottles can be transformed into useful community assets—turning waste into purpose and supporting more sustainable habits for all.
Partnership for a Waste-Free Tomorrow
The expanded program also supports SM’s Waste-Free Future campaign, reinforcing the company’s broader commitment to environmental stewardship, plastic waste diversion, and sustainable community engagement.
Through partnerships, technology, and everyday participation from mall visitors, SM continues to make recycling easier and more accessible—empowering communities to take small actions that contribute to a cleaner and more sustainable future.
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