SM’s bold step beyond the hour

Echoing the campaign to “save the planet”, SM City Baliwag and SM City Marilao went beyond the symbolic 60- minute lights switch off by promoting energy-saving alternatives.

At exactly 8:30 pm, SM City Baliwag and SM City Marilao simultaneously turned off lights on both malls’ perimeter which includes external signages, bill boards and lamp posts. Likewise, a selection of stores and car park lights were reduced to conserve energy while ensuring the safety of mall customers.

 In sync with this year’s theme dubbed, “I will, if you will,” SM City Baliwag, in partnership with Bulacan State University and Solartech Enterprise, highlighted the renewable energy source through the Solar panel and converter. Huge, solar-powered lanterns adorned the 50-meter stretch of the mall as it was dramatically lit following the switched off of lights. Each paper lanterns measuring at least 3 feet in diameter used LED bulbs which were all powered by solar energy.

Synchronously, SM City Marilao called on community members, institutions and government authorities to commit for the earth protection by encouraging sustainable living. To make it significant, rows of votive candles were lit on the symbolic sixty (60) minute candelabra as prayers were offered to show solidarity with the worldwide campaign of saving the earth. A ceremonial passing of light from generation to generation led the 10-second countdown for the earth hour.

Special performances from Sophia School in Marilao and the Bulacan State University Saring Himig, Jazz Band and Alexian Street dancers in Baliwag were carried out, inspiring mall patrons of the urgent need for action as regards to global warming.

Because earth hour is more than just switching off lights, SM City Marilao and SM City Baliwag, have been committed in actively promoting earth-friendly activities through the unified environmental programs under SM Cares. Among the series of activities launched were the Trash to Cash Recycling Market, Green Retail Agenda and BioFuel Talks, Green Bag campaign, and solid waste management program in the malls. Without a doubt, these activities have shown great things in achieving sustainability and proving that people come together for a common cause and that is to save the earth.