Everywhere you turn, the conversation around reducing single-use plastic is gaining momentum and support. At ION Orchard, we’re not just part of this conversation; we’re actively putting sustainability into action. Alongside eco-conscious patrons like yourself, we’re committed to making a real environmental impact.

In 2022, Singapore grappled with a staggering million tonnes of plastic waste — a challenge that continues to affect us all. That translates to 177kg of plastic waste per capita, marking a 17% increase from 2017. Unfortunately, only 6% of plastic waste is recycled, leaving the rest to burden our landfills and oceans.

But it’s not just about plastic. The repercussions extend beyond mere material. As food wastage and disposables swell the volume of waste incinerated, the Semakau Landfill fills up faster than ever, projected to reach capacity by 2035. While initiatives like the longstanding BYOB (bring your own bag) campaign have made strides, it’s clear that more can — and must be done.

It’s never too late for us to make a difference. Ongoing since 2021, ION⁺ Rewards Members are rewarded with Green Points when using their own shopping bags, mugs, food containers or purchasing sustainable items at selected stores where relevant collections are offered. The sustainable initiatives at ION Orchard are a testament to the power of change that starts with our choices. At the centre of it all is ION & YOU — a symbol of unity, purpose, and shared responsibility. It’s more than just an emblem; it’s a call to action. By embracing mindful consumption, we can knit sustainability into Singapore’s tapestry and unite a collective movement towards a greener tomorrow.

A familiar hub for the fashion-forward, ION Orchard has evolved beyond into a champion of eco-friendly living. We go the extra mile to support the green initiatives of your favourite shopping destinations and reward you, our eco-conscious shoppers, with Green Points in recognition of your sustainable consumption choices.

The shift towards sustainability may be subtle in appearance, but select fashion and accessory brands at ION Orchard are boldly declaring their eco-commitments through designs that resonate with your deepest values. For instance, By Invite Only crafts its jewellery with ethical integrity, partnering exclusively with BSCI-compliant factories.

Gucci on the other hand made its mark with its visionary Equilibrium mission, a ten-year strategy aiming for a 40% reduction in environmental impact within their supply chain operations by 2025. Similarly, Marimekko has set a lofty goal to slash logistics carbon emissions by 50% in 2025, having already reduced the GHG emissions of their operations by 40% three years three years ahead of their targeted schedule for 2025.

A dazzling array of the latest fashion pieces awaits at ION Orchard where each boutique, a treasure trove of exquisite designs, invites you to explore and indulge in the finest of sartorial delights. As you curate your new wardrobe with the season's most coveted collections, consider the impact of your sartorial choices beyond mere style. When the time comes to declutter your closet, resist the impulse to discard your once chic-upon-a-time wardrobe fits.

Instead, embrace the spirit of giving by donating your pre-loved garments. Your generous act can bring joy to others, transforming your fashion finds into meaningful contributions that uplift and inspire. By doing so, you not only extend the life of your cherished items but also contribute to a more sustainable and compassionate world, where fashion becomes a force for good.

The Salvation Army Donation Drive, at Level 8 Lobby A of the mall, invites you to donate preloved clothing and accessories, extending their lifecycle and enriching lives. It’s a meaningful opportunity to give back in a way that lets people benefit from your exquisite style while reducing environmental debris across our planet.

The choices we make in our beauty purchases hold power. Recycling plants are already up to their necks in plastic, we can’t rely solely on recycling to solve this climate crisis. By opting for minimal packaging or materials that are recycled or reusable, you can reduce the amount of waste that comes from packaging. Brands like Lush are on a mission to make the world — well lusher. With their recycled packaging and a robust recycling policy for customers to return plastic packaging and empties, they can extend the lifetime of materials by reusing them repeatedly. If you’re a fan of moisturising face masks, treat your skin to some by simply returning five full-sized qualifying empties at Lush.

Others like L’OCCITANE are embracing the refill revolution with stores offering refills for beauty empties, while Elemis London conducts exchanges of full-sized skincare empties for a travel-sized Pro-Collagen Naked Cleansing Balm. Clarins rewards its members with bonus Club Clarins points for recycling their retail-sized products or when they bring their own bag.

Savour the taste of eco-friendliness as you stroll through ION Orchard. Echoing the shift towards earth-friendly practices in the realms of fashion and beauty, make sure you stop by select eateries and taste the sustainable differences they’re serving up.

Coffee enthusiasts with a green thumb rejoice, Starbucks is giving away coffee grounds for compost and garden fertiliser free of charge. Simply give them a heads-up in advance with your container before visiting. Come thirsty with your own tumbler or mug as well for a $0.50 discount on any beverage.

If you’re a chocolate lover, swing by renowned Italian chocolatier Venchi for a sweet and sustainable treat. Their 70% less sugar cocoa range certified by the Rainforest Alliance, supports environmental protection, biodiversity, and workers’ rights. In their stores, Venchi uses only 100% recyclable materials, including compostable FSC-certified paper and PCR PET, reflecting their commitment to a green value chain. This partnership exemplifies how ethical practices and sweet, chocolatey enjoyment can coexist in bonbon harmony.

Adding to the mall’s green narrative is the ’Sustainable Takeaway at ION Orchard’ pilot programme, an initiative that marks ION Orchard as the first shopping mall in Singapore to reduce single-use disposables in dining. Until 30 September 2024, shoppers can enjoy their meals in reusable cups and food containers provided through the programme. Participation is effortless. With a quick scan of a serialised QR code at participating stores including Common Man Coffee Roasters, Food Opera, Plain Vanilla, Starbucks, The 1872 Clipper Tea Co., and Toast Box, you’re on your way to a sustainable takeaway dining experience without compromise.