Taguig city: Innovation and partnerships with the government and communities are key elements to achieving sustainability in businesses, Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Secretary Renato Solidum Jr. stated during the first day of the Sustainability Expo held in Taguig City.

According to Philippines News Agency, Secretary Solidum emphasized how technology enables efficient resource use and adaptation to external shocks, moving closer to a circular economy where resources are not wasted. He underscored the importance of partnerships among industry, government, and communities to make innovation impactful, ensuring it protects the environment and secures a sustainable future.

Solidum highlighted that regulators, investors, and customers expect businesses to adopt sustainability as a core business strategy beyond mere profit-making. He stressed that embedding sustainability alongside financial performance is crucial for long-term competitiveness and value creation, with innovation serving as the bridge between business and sustainability.

He further explained that technology plays a critical role in boosting resilience by investing in solutions and that digitalization aids businesses in adopting greener practices. Solidum pointed out vast opportunities for the private sector, particularly through collaboration with the government, which could lead to research support. He mentioned that DOST-developed innovations are available for industry use.

The Sustainability Expo, running until Saturday, features groundbreaking technologies and scalable solutions aimed at enhancing climate resilience and waste reduction. Highlighted technologies include SM Seaside City Cebu's solar panels and SM City Baguio's rainwater treatment facility, showcasing sustainable innovations in energy and water conservation.

With over 50 exhibitors, the expo includes advancements in waste management and recycling, energy and water efficiency, electric vehicles, carbon reduction, air quality improvement, and disaster resilience. Organized by SM Prime, the DOST, and ARISE Philippines, the event aims to unite government agencies, enterprises, tenant partners, sustainability advocates, diplomats, and students.

SM Prime chairperson Hans Sy reiterated the aim to progress beyond dialogue and to shape solutions, forge stronger partnerships, and drive change at the necessary scale to meet current challenges.