The increasing number of dead whales and birds because of plastics inside their stomach is really alarming. And after just having watched “A Plastic Ocean” at the SM Aura a week ago, another poor lifeless whale surfaced along the shore of Indonesia. And what can we do about it?
Business establishments such as restaurants today are aware of the dangers of plastic that is why they are now promoting more ecological and sustainable practices like proper waste segregation and the use of non-plastic straws. The Last Straw, an initiative of SM Aura which envisions a strawless community is underway. More and more restaurants express their interest and active participation to the program by offering customers alternatives to plastic straws.
With its strong commitment to be an eco-friendly property development, SM Aura, in partnership with SM Cares, SM Cinema, World Wildlife Fund and the Department of Natural Resources launched the Lush Initiative – a movement that showcases a round-up of eco-friendly activities to help built better lifestyle spaces.
Teaming up with Tulay Lingap ni Padre Pio, Inc., SM Aura built a lush environment in the mall with ‘Boxes of Greens’ – the first fully operational herb garden in a mall that not only promotes a green environment , but also sustains the livelihood of rural communities. Proceeds of which will go to building of schools, emergency assistance and reforestation.
SM Aura also teamed up with The Plastic Solution as the exclusive drop-off point for Eco-bricks, – plastic bottles stuffed with solid, non-biodegrable waste converted into structures for the sorrounding communities.
Other green programs of SM Aura include Trash-to-Cash recycling market among others. Part of the Lush Initiative is also coming out with a series of Sustainable Fairs that promote Zero Waste lifestyle and products.
************************
About SM Aura Premier
SM Aura Premier is the upscale shopping and dining destination in Taguig city. A recipient of the prestigious LEED® Gold certification, SM’s 50th mall serves as a forerunner in fashion, dining, and art concepts, being the first to offer the top international brands and to showcase global artists in the Philippines. SM Aura Premier aims to be the country’s mecca for art, life, and style.
*feature article photo from SM Supermalls website
Living Natural Today (@livenatural2day)
Great ideas! Glad to see a mall do this. More shopping centers need to follow their lead.
Jennifer Pagalilauan
@livenatural2day Looking forward to it too! Thanks!