Macerich®, one of the nation’s leading shopping center owners, developers and operators, is sharply focused on sustainability as a long-term, fully integrated business approach. Throughout its operations, the company is actively integrating sustainable practices designed to ensure a healthy environment for employees, retailers, shoppers and communities. These efforts are designed to help conserve resources while simultaneously supporting the company’s business goals.

For Macerich, the positive economic returns stemming from sustainable practices are equally as important as the social, cultural and environmental benefits. These endeavors complement the company’s longstanding philosophy of engaging and giving back to its local communities. 

The company initially implemented a strategic energy plan, which focuses less on certifications and more on making changes across the board to help save energy and the environment, while delivering lower costs. Since then, a comprehensive, five-year sustainability plan was launched. Sustainability is integrated across the portfolio and tailored to each property. Elevating sustainability within the company’s corporate culture is a cornerstone of Macerich’s commitment.

• Most of the center’s trash is taken to a facility that sorts out the recyclable materials and only discards the “true” waste.
• In 2008, the center installed a new irrigation system to reduce water use by about 30 percent.
• New pathways onsite encourage shoppers to walk between the various stores rather than driving. The paths also complement the area’s active lifestyle.
• Many of our retailers now offer shoppers the option of reusable bags. Customers can also choose to recycle plastic bags at guest services.
• Our Security Staff uses Global Electric Motorcars and Segways instead of vehicles powered by gas.
• We partnered with the City of Phoenix Public Works Department to ask shoppers to turn in their plastic bags for a reusable tote. More than 4,000 shoppers turned out to recycle.
• Paradise Valley Mall also has an adopted school. Our staff uses this program as an opportunity to help teach the importance of recycling.