SM Mall Baguio will get an environment-friendly facelift, leading to it earning a global green building standard.

SM Prime Holdings said the mall’s one year expansion and redevelopment will commence this month after it has received the permit to relocate the 142 trees affected by the renovation.

To address the concerns on affected trees raised by environmentalists, SM will conduct massive tree planting in the city, in coordination with Department of Environment and Natural Resources.

“The plan will not only be a catalyst for employment, business, and tourism opportunities in the city, but also highlight SM’s commitment to the environment,” said by SM Prime in a statement.

SM Baguio’s existing 106,000 sqm area will have a further 76,000 sqm added. Among the highlights of the renovation will be the Roof Garden featuring a landscape of native and non-invasive trees coalesced with water features. The renovation will also see a seven storey open-air retail, entertainment and dining destination.

To be certified by Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED), the renovated mall will use efficient and energy-saving LED and compact fluorescent lamps and interior space will be designed to allow greater penetration of daylight, reducing the need for artificial lighting.

The car park will have 1000 spaces added and be relocated underground, removing it from public view. Canopies will be installed from the building to the street providing cover for the passages connecting the mall to public transport facilities.

SM Prime will be collaborating with US Green Building Council in ensuring green standards in the building’s design, construction and operation. SM Mall Baguio will be the Philippine’s first LEED certified shopping mall once the facelift is complete.

GB