We’ve been bombarded with terms like physical distancing, quarantine, and “new normals” as the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic continues to wreak havoc all over the globe.
But in these bleak and trying times, indeed the new normal activities for us seem to revolve around heightened consciousness of our hygiene, limiting our exposure to the outside world, and acceptance of the fact that these restrictions would be part of our lives for years to come.
Big corporations aren’t spared as well. Conglomerates in various industries have reeled from the effects of government-imposed lockdowns. Forecasts paint a grim outlook on the world economy, making bouncing back after this pandemic a seemingly insurmountable uphill climb.
Indeed these are the “new normals” of our society but these did not stop companies from pioneering another new normal in these times: we are all affected, but helping others in need is still a top priority.
San Miguel Corporation or SMC, led by its President and COO Ramon S. Ang, is one such conglomerate. It has have been spearheading monumental initiatives to fight the effects of this pandemic since the enhanced community quarantine in Luzon was imposed back in March.
Banking on its “Walang Iwanan” campaign, SMC’s COVID-19 effort has produced billions of pesos worth in relief projects and has helped hundreds of thousands of people not only in Metro Manila but also in other parts of the country.
Though truth be told, selfless acts are nothing new for one of the Philippines’ largest and most diversified conglomerates.
In fact, by 2025, SMC commits to reduce its use of water in all processes across the San Miguel group by 50 percent as part of its 50 x 2025 campaign.
While their water management efficiency level is among the highest in the Philippines, and while water conservation and protection has always been a key component of its operations, they are challenging themselves to do more.
How they will do so is based on a 4-point agenda aimed at reducing their water consumption and protection of vital water resources.
Eliminate wastage of water across operations
SMC says it will adopt new and stricter measures to improve the efficiency of their water use as well as utilize water-saving technologies and implement conservation programs.
Reuse and Recycle more water
The company also stressed that it will optimize all its wastewater treatment facilities to further lessen their water footprint. It also commits to make greater use of treated greywater for non-essential processes.
Reduce the use of ground and surface water and protect vital water resources
SMC will continue to lessen its use of ground and surface water, protect these water resources, and empower their communities to do the same.
Harvest rainwater
It will harvest rainwater and runoff water from creeks and rivers which includes collecting, filtering, and storing rainwater for irrigation and for various other purposes in its facilities in the hopes that others will follow in their example.
It is equally committed to providing water-challenged communities not just with access to safe, potable water, but also the ability to be self-sustaining when it comes to water management.
Asked why SMC is doing all of these, the conglomerate says,” Why do we care? Because it’s everyone’s water."