SMX Convention Center Manila is pushing the sustainability envelope by implementing numerous initiatives, where its biggest feat is reducing its dependence on non-renewable energy.
Currently, at least 50 per cent of SMX Manila’s electricity comes from clean and renewable sources like hydro and geothermal from Aboitiz Power.
The venue’s parent company, SM Prime, has a long-term Cleanenergy deal with Aboitiz Power to supply clean and renewable electricity to its properties including hotels, malls and convention centres, where the aim is to increase its renewable energy portfolio to over 50 per cent.
Mike Albaña, vice president and general manager of SMX Convention Center, told TTGmice that the venue will also be “aggressively promoting our green meeting packages” due to the real threat of climate change, as well as to meet clients’ expectations.
Moreover, Albaña shared that SMX Manila will complete converting all its lighting into LEDs this year, while the installation of automatic sensors in all escalators has already been completed.
Other venue initiatives, Albaña shared, include partnering with two rural communities in Batangas to recycle and repurpose discarded linens and uniforms into various products like rags or bags for sale; educating food caterers to use more locally-sourced ingredients, and converting food waste into plant fertiliser.
SMX Manila also conserves about 100,000 litres of water yearly by partnering with Diversey for an anti-bacterial air urinal cover in lieu of using a water flush. Meanwhile, office eco-practices include paperless transactions, digital collaterals, and business cards with a QR code.
He previously served as the general manager of Hilton Adelaide for nearly five years.
Having been with the SkyTeam Alliance carrier for 17 years, Chang will move to Phnom Penh for his new role. He was previously based at the airline’s headquarters in Seoul where he was in charge of marketing for Europe and South-east Asia.
