via Graphic Plus — SM Hotels and Conventions Corporation (SMHCC) was conferred the “2025 World’s Leading Sustainable Circular Economy” at the prestigious World Sustainable Travel & Hospitality Awards in Dubai for its ‘Plate for the Planet’ program. 

The said awards aim at recognizing, celebrating, and sharing game-changer stories of both individuals and organizations that make an indelible impact and contribution in sustainable travel and tourism. All submissions were meticulously screened by Sustainable Business students at Nova Business School and reviewed by the Advisory Board.

‘Plate for the Planet’ seeks to expand healthy and environment-friendly dining options, directed towards reducing dining wastes and mitigating GHG emissions in the food service industry. “Through the program, SMHCC endeavors to halve per capita global food waste at both the consumer and production levels, while greening supply chains and maintaining the food waste per cover, below industry levels as part of our decarbonization plans,” said SMHCC Vice President for Quality and Sustainability Ms. Leah Magallanes. 

The program is part of SMHCC’s Sustainable Diner Program where every item on the menu is carefully curated, featuring locally sourced and hotel harvested ingredients. This initiative is a testament of SMHCC’s commitment to circular economy in its operations. Food waste is managed through traditional composting of layering with bacteria and the more modern way of using a bio digester. “Compost is then used as fertilizer in our gardens and partner farms, while the harvested herbs, vegetables, and fruits are used by our chefs to prepare a delicious dish – a ‘Plate for the Planet’. As such, we have partnered up with SM Foundation farmers through their Kabalikat sa Kabuhayan (KSK) program for our composting and gardening efforts,” adds Ms. Magallanes.

In particular, ‘Plate for the Planet’ advances the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDG) on Responsible Consumption and Production, reinforcing the company’s thrust on global sustainability standards. This strategic direction is systematically implemented across all SMHCC properties, integrating responsible practices into daily hotel operations. Dedicated Sustainability Champions at each property ensure these initiatives are actively upheld, measured, and continuously strengthened.

This global recognition affirms SMHCC’s leadership in driving circular innovation within the hospitality industry, proving that sustainability and exceptional guest experiences can go hand in hand. As the company continues to elevate its environmental commitment across all properties, it remains steadfast in shaping a future where every stay and every plate contribute to a more sustainable world.