Rethinking Real Estate: Can Progress and Sustainability Coexist?

For decades, real estate development has been synonymous with progress—expanding skylines, new commercial hubs, and rapid urbanization. But as climate concerns grow and cities become denser, the industry faces a critical question: Can we build for the future without harming it?

Robinsons Land Corporation (RLC) is among the developers pushing for a sustainable future. Through its Road to Sustainability (RTS) Awards, in its third year, RLC is redefining what it means to be a responsible developer. The initiative highlights innovations in real estate that benefit communities, the environment, and the economy, while inspiring industry-wide change.

This shift is not happening in a vacuum. A YouGov survey reveals that 97% of Filipinos believe corporations have a responsibility to do social good, and they are more likely to support businesses that actively contribute to communities. For developers, this means sustainability is no longer optional—it is a business imperative.

"Sustainability is fundamental to our long-term business resilience and success. As a real estate developer, we have the unique responsibility and opportunity to create spaces that stand the test of time," said Mybelle Aragon-GoBio, RLC President and CEO. "We remain steadfast in our commitments because being a responsible developer is about building a future that is viable and built to last."

Across its offices, malls, residences, and hotels, RLC has embedded sustainability into the very fabric of its developments—scaling solar energy, cutting plastic waste, and future-proofing its buildings. It is not a passing trend or a box to tick but a core business strategy, built to endure regardless of shifting global currents.

From Plastic to Purpose

A typical hotel discards tens of thousands of single-use plastic bottles annually. In response, RLC introduced R Water, an in-house water bottling program under Robinsons Hotels & Resorts (RHR). By converting an underutilized facility at Holiday Inn Manila Galleria into a centralized bottling plant, they have completely eliminated single-use plastic bottles across three major hotels, Holiday Inn Manila Galleria, Crowne Plaza Manila Galleria, and The Westin Manila.

 

The results are notable: 100% reduction in plastic bottle waste in guest rooms and event spaces, preventing 8.1 tons of plastic waste annually and cutting associated carbon emissions by 64%. At least 25,416 reusable glass bottles have been produced to date. The hope is that this model will scale across the industry.

This is the kind of shift we need to see in business, said Aljo Quintans, SDG Specialist at the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), highlighting the critical role of businesses in advancing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDGs). "The SDGs opens up new opportunities and creates big efficiency gains for the private sector, especially as it drives innovation and enhances reputations. In as much as businesses are good for SDGs, SDGs are indeed good for business."

A Mall for the Many

Sustainability is not just about reducing waste—it is also about creating spaces where everyone feels welcome and supported. Robinsons Malls' A Mall for All initiative, also recognized for its social sustainability efforts, is a case in point. The program introduces Safe Zones—mindfully designed spaces for persons with disabilities, seniors, and pregnant women—making public areas welcoming. It is a thoughtful step toward inclusivity in a world where, according to the World Health Organization, over 1.3 billion people live with disabilities.

 

But Robinsons Malls did not stop there. Partnering with the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology, the mall hosted trade fairs showcasing products made by persons deprived of liberty, generating sales supporting 2,200 individuals. It is a smart, restorative approach to economic empowerment. Meanwhile, workshops on financial literacy and skills training, run with World Vision and local women's groups, have empowered over 300 women—tackling gender gaps head-on.

 

Beyond corporate philanthropy, it is a reimagining of what a mall can be. The challenge lies in ensuring they are not one-off projects but part of a long-term strategy to embed inclusivity into the fabric of commercial spaces. By blending accessibility, economic inclusion, and community empowerment, Robinsons Malls is setting a standard for how commercial spaces can drive meaningful change.

The Quiet Power of Good Governance

While environmental and social initiatives often take the spotlight, governance is the backbone of long-term sustainability. RLC's Controls and Compliance Department and Investor Relations group were also honored with the Governance Excellence Award, recognizing their commitment to transparency and ethical business practices.

In a rapidly evolving regulatory landscape, their work ensures that RLC not only meets compliance standards but also builds trust among investors, stakeholders, and the communities it serves.

Building Better

Witnessing the positive impact of these efforts by Robinsons Land, it is clear that businesses can play a pivotal role in creating a sustainable future. Numerous initiatives are already underway and many more on the horizon. As UNDP's Quintans points out, "The need to accelerate our efforts on the SDGs is not only critical but also urgent. The role of the private sector is vital in this process."

 

The Road to Sustainability Awards is part of a larger movement within the Gokongwei Group recognizing that sustainability has already moved from an optional CSR initiative to a business-critical strategy. By recognizing innovative programs like R Water and A Mall for All, RLC sets an example of how real estate developers can "Build Better" balancing progress with responsibility.

But the conversation around sustainability in real estate is far from over. As developers navigate the complexities of climate change, urbanization, and social inequality, the need for innovative, scalable solutions has never been greater.

Visit www.robinsonsland.com/sustainability to view the 2023 Sustainability Report and follow @officialrobinsonsland on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn for more stories, insights, and updates on its sustainability efforts.