EARTH HOUR CELEBRATION
Through the initiative of SM City Olongapo, the observance of Earth Hour was joined by various establishments in the city along with the 17 barangays.
The aim was to engage the community in the lights out event which was held on March 29, 2014 at exactly 8:30 in the evening.
SM said in a staement that it wants “to inspire everyone that earth hour is not just about an hour of lights off, its what we can do to our community, to the world and to the planet.”
The impressive result of the Earth Hour observance manifested the willingess of the stakeholders to do their part in saving the planet, the staement said.
The mall’s participation includesd switching off 100% of the Mall’s lighted logos, 50% of Mall interior lights and perimeter lights including tenants lightings, while remaining open to loyal patrons.
The switching off of lights commenced at exactly 8:30pm with the participation of Olongapo City Mayor Rolen Paulino, Vice Mayor Rodel Cerezo, Chairman of Committee on Environmental Protection City Councilor Noel Atienza, City Councilors, Association of Barangay Captain President Randy Sionzon, 2014 Ms. Filipinas Tourism Nicole Dichoso and Rotaract Club of Freeport Zone president Allen Joseph Horvidalla.
SM Olongapo Asst. Mall Manager Bong Garcia highlighted in his speech the environmental programs of SM Supermalls that focus on efficient business and environmental stewardship.
“Our monthly “Trash to Cash Recycling Market” every 1st Friday and Saturday of the month is provided for our customers and the community at large to properly recycle and reduce their wastes,” Garcia said. “Our malls are not only equipped with resource saving measures but also serves as venue for environment information and education awareness campaigns. We operate our malls in environmentally responsible ways that engage both our customers and stakeholders.”
Meanwhile, Councilor Noel Atienza recognized SMs advocacy for environmental awareness.
SM hopes to significantly contribute to the total reduction in consumable energy and thus, impact to the overall goal of Earth Hour for this year.
Earth Hour, a project of WorldWide Fund for Nature in cooperation with the Department of Energy is a lights out movement that seeks to raise awareness about climate change and its impact on the planet. (SMOL)
