SUSTEX 2025: A New Chapter in Sustainability, Ignited by Science and Business

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In a powerful union of public and private sectors, SM Prime Holdings and the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) staged the inaugural SM Sustainability Expo (SUSTEX 2025) at the SMX Convention Center Aura in Taguig. More than just a conference, the two-day event was a dynamic showcase of innovation, bringing together over 50 exhibitors to advance a greener and more resilient future for the Philippines.

The Beat of Collective Action

The Expo’s opening was a powerful display of collaboration, symbolized by the "Beat of Sustainability" ceremony. SM Prime Executive Committee Chairman Hans T. Sy and DOST Secretary Renato Solidum led the event, striking the Solidrum, a unique bamboo drum developed by the DOST–Forest Products Research and Development Institute (FPRDI). They were joined by leaders from SM and other dignitaries who played the angklung, a bamboo instrument recognized by UNESCO. This harmonious performance was a visual metaphor for the collective action needed to drive sustainability forward.

In his remarks, Hans Sy underscored that public-private partnerships are crucial, as they demonstrate how science and business can unite to address today's most pressing environmental challenges. "We encourage more of this," Sy stated, "as the private sector can provide support to projects by local scientists".

From Theory to Tangible Solutions

Secretary Solidum echoed this sentiment, emphasizing that SUSTEX highlights how innovation can strengthen national resilience and promote a circular economy. He introduced the OneDOST4U initiative, which aims to make science, technology, and innovations "real solutions, accessible to businesses, communities, and every Filipino". Solidum captured this philosophy with a powerful phrase: "Agham na Ramdam," which translates to "science that is felt, lived, and experienced".

He concluded with a direct and urgent call to action for businesses: "enough talk. ... What we need now is proof. Businesses must set their sights on real, tangible goals—not pretty brochures, not slogans, but numbers you can measure, promises you can check".

A Marketplace of Filipino Ingenuity

The Expo was a living testament to this call for tangible action. With more than 50 exhibitors, the "Innovation Marketplace" showcased a diverse range of Filipino ingenuity and global collaborations. Attendees explored booths featuring everything from sustainable packaging to advanced waste management systems.

SM Prime and Japan’s GUUN Environmental Company highlighted their "Waste-Free Future" campaign.

ARISE Philippines presented solutions for disaster resilience through private sector partnerships.

The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) showcased their Loop Forward Program for large-scale waste reduction.

The DOST-FPRDI’s centerpiece featured sustainable furniture, essential oils from local plants, and bamboo instruments.

The DOST-CHRG exhibited cutting-edge innovations in electric vehicle technology.

Beyond the exhibits, the Ignite Stage hosted lively panel discussions and fireside chats where experts shared actionable insights on sustainability and science-led development.

A Catalyst for a Sustainable Future

SUSTEX 2025 was a powerful statement of intent. The event reinforced SM’s long-term sustainability roadmap, including its commitment to achieve Net Zero by 2040 and its ongoing Waste-Free Future campaign. As Hans Sy concluded, the hope is for the Expo to be a "catalyst for collaboration, a hub for practical solutions, and a reminder that business can be a force for good".

The event serves as a symbol of SM Supermalls' dedication to sustainable development, evolving its 88 malls across the Philippines with green designs, energy efficiency, and disaster resilience. SUSTEX 2025 has not only showcased groundbreaking solutions but has also laid the foundation for a more purposeful and sustainable future for all Filipinos.

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