The environmental consulting industry is essential for helping businesses and governments deal with complex environmental regulations and sustainability practices. This sector mainly focuses on ensuring compliance with environmental laws, assessing the impact of activities on the environment, and offering strategic advice for sustainable practices. The industry has experienced significant growth as more people become aware of environmental issues, regulations become stricter, and there is a rising demand for sustainable business practices.
Dr. Mohammed Al-Surf, the Managing Director at Tilad sustainability CO. and Director at Tilad Academy, as well as the Founder and President of the Sustainability Professionals of Saudi Arabia (SPSA), is a leading figure in this industry. Under his guidance, Tilad Group. successfully navigates the competitive environmental consulting landscape by providing a wide range of services, integrating cultural values, focusing on innovation, and actively engaging with the community. Dr. Mohammed is committed to promoting sustainability in Saudi Arabia and the MENA region by applying a systematic approach to green construction and sustainable practices in projects. His goal is to improve the quality of life while protecting the diminishing supply of natural resources.
The Journey and Legacy in Environmental Leadership
Dr. Mohammed Al-Surf has previously worked as a Senior Advisor for Sustainability and Climate Action at Jacobs. He is also the founder of the Green Building Training Center (GBTC) and the Sustainability Professionals in Saudi Arabia Network (SPSA), which has over 16,000 members.
Before this, he served as the Regional Manager and Market Development leader for the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) in Saudi Arabia. He is a certified USGBC Faculty, a LEED AP specializing in Building Design and Construction (BD+C), an ISSP SEA, an Envision SP, a Mostadam AP, a Fitwel Ambassador, and a TRUE® Advisor.
Dr. Mohammed has authored several papers and books, including the book “10 Steps to Become a Sustainability Professional” and “Sustainable Housing in Saudi Arabia: Opportunities & Challenges.” He is also a member of various local and international professional organizations, such as the Saudi Council of Engineers (SCE), the Pacific Rim Real-Estate Society (PRRES), the Asian Real-Estate Society (AsRES), and the Project Management Institute (PMI).
Leading the Charge in Environmental Stewardship
Tilad Environment Co. was founded in 2011 with the goal of promoting sustainability and environmental stewardship through innovative solutions and services. Over the years, it has become a recognized leader in the environmental management sector, dedicated to tackling the challenges of climate change and ecological degradation.
The company’s mission is to drive positive environmental change by offering tailored solutions that help organizations reduce their carbon footprints, conserve natural resources, and improve sustainability practices. The company envisions a future where businesses and communities work together to create a healthier planet for current and future generations.
With a diverse team of over 450 employees from more than 35 nationalities, Tilad Environment Co. provides a culture of collaboration, innovation, and continuous learning. The company prioritizes building strong relationships with clients, partners, and communities, believing that collaboration is essential for effectively addressing environmental challenges.
As the company continues to expand its services, it remains committed to providing a sustainable future, actively seeking opportunities for innovation and adaptation. Through its dedicated efforts, Tilad Environment Co. aims to make a meaningful contribution to the health of the planet and the well-being of future generations.
The Founding Story
The inspiration to start Tilad Environment Co. came from a strong commitment to environmental sustainability and the urgent need to tackle pressing environmental issues. The founders aimed to create a company that promotes responsible environmental practices while providing a better understanding of the link between human activities and ecological health. Witnessing the effects of climate change and environmental degradation motivated them to establish a platform for innovative solutions.
A significant achievement has been the growth and expansion of Tilad Environment Co.’s diverse services, which help clients improve their environmental performance. However, the company has faced challenges, particularly in adapting to rapidly changing environmental regulations, technologies, and client expectations.
Leading a diverse team also posed challenges in maintaining collaboration and a shared vision. Despite these obstacles, the founders’ dedication to sustainability and the commitment of its talented team have driven Tilad Environment Co. forward, allowing the company to positively impact sustainable practices across various sectors.
Products and Services it Offers
Tilad Environment Co. offers a wide range of products and services aimed at promoting sustainability and enhancing environmental stewardship. Its expertise covers various sectors, allowing it to provide customized solutions that meet the unique needs of its clients.
| Carbon Management Services The company conducts detailed assessments of carbon emissions, develops carbon offset projects, and offers sustainability consulting. Its goal is to help organizations accurately measure and manage their carbon footprints while enhancing sustainability efforts. | Sustainability Services This includes strategic planning, sustainability reporting, and engaging stakeholders. The company assists organizations in creating comprehensive sustainability strategies that align with their values and meet regulatory and market expectations. |
| Ecosystems and Marine Services The company focuses on ecological conservation, working on projects that restore ecosystems and manage marine resources to support marine health and biodiversity. | Operations & Maintenance of Reserves The company manages and maintains natural reserves, ensuring they are sustainable and diverse. It implements best practices for protecting and enhancing these vital environments. |
| Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) The company conducts thorough EIAs to evaluate the potential environmental effects of proposed projects, crucial for informed decision-making and regulatory compliance. | Biodiversity Conservation It develops strategies to protect and sustain biodiversity, including habitat restoration and species protection programs, while promoting community awareness of biodiversity issues. |
| Veterinary Services Focusing on wildlife health, the company provides veterinary care to support animal rehabilitation in conservation programs. | Tilad Academy Tilad Academy offers educational programs and workshops to enhance knowledge and skills in environmental management and sustainable practices. |
| Surveillance & Verification It offers services for monitoring and verifying environmental projects to ensure compliance with established standards and contribute effectively to sustainability goals. | Infrastructure Development The company engages in planning and developing sustainable infrastructure projects that are environmentally friendly and resilient. |
| Logistic Support The company provides logistical support for various projects, ensuring efficient and responsible execution of activities. | Research & Development (R&D) The company prioritizes R&D to innovate new methodologies and technologies that improve their environmental solutions and adapt to emerging sustainability challenges. |
| Planning & Strategy It works closely with clients to develop strategic plans that align with sustainability goals and regulatory requirements for effective implementation. | Project Management Office (PMO) The company’s PMO oversees and coordinates projects, ensuring they are completed on time, within scope, and aligned with best practices. |
Carbon Department and Its Initial Challenges
Since its establishment, Tilad Environment Co.’s primary goal has been to promote sustainability and environmental stewardship across various sectors. However, launching the Carbon Department in May 2023 brought several initial challenges that required careful management to ensure its success.
One significant hurdle was raising awareness about carbon management and sustainability. Many organizations were unfamiliar with measuring and reducing their carbon footprints, making education essential yet time-consuming. Additionally, building credibility and trust in the market was crucial for a new department. Demonstrating expertise and reliability involved showcasing qualifications, past successes, and the skills of team members to establish a strong reputation.
Navigating complex and evolving environmental regulations also posed a challenge, as it was vital to ensure compliance while guiding clients through their own regulatory journeys. Resource allocation was another concern; the department needed skilled personnel, technology, and funding while maintaining financial stability. Attracting and retaining talent in carbon management and sustainability proved difficult in a competitive job market.
Despite these challenges, the company’s commitment to sustainability, along with the dedication of its diverse team, allowed it to overcome obstacles and lay a solid foundation for the Carbon Department. Embracing these challenges created opportunities for growth and refined strategies to better serve clients.
A Turning Point for Sustainability
A significant turning point for Tilad Environment Co. was the growing global recognition of the urgent need for sustainability and climate action. This awareness arose from rising climate concerns, regulatory changes, and shifting societal expectations toward corporate responsibility.
The establishment of the Carbon Department in May 2023 marked a crucial moment in the company’s growth. Acknowledging the increasing pressure on businesses to measure and reduce their carbon footprints, the company strategically expanded its service offerings to meet this demand. This initiative diversified Tilad Environment Co.’s services and attracted a wider range of clients from various sectors seeking effective environmental solutions. Consequently, there was a surge in interest and engagement, leading to new partnerships and an expanded client base. Additionally, its commitment to innovation and research and development has driven growth.
Balancing Innovation and Stability
Balancing innovation with stability and profitability is essential for leading the Carbon Department at Tilad Environment Co. To achieve this, Dr. Mohammed Al-Surf emphasizes creating a structured framework that promotes creativity while focusing on core business objectives. He believes in cultivating a culture of innovation within the team by encouraging new ideas and thoughtful risk-taking, ensuring that innovations align with strategic goals. Regular brainstorming sessions and innovation workshops allow team members to propose new projects and improvements, providing ownership and generating fresh ideas.
To manage the risks associated with these innovations, the company implements a clear evaluation process. Potential projects undergo feasibility analysis, considering costs, resources, and expected outcomes. Establishing key performance indicators (KPIs) in advance helps track the success of new initiatives without compromising stability or profitability.
Maintaining stability is achieved by reinforcing proven practices within existing operations, which allows Tilad Environment Co. to sustain profitability while exploring new opportunities. Dr. Mohammed Al-Surf ensures that current projects are well-resourced and focused, providing continuity in service delivery. By maintaining ongoing communication with stakeholders and regularly reassessing strategies, Tilad Environment Co. can adapt to changes while embracing innovation, providing a resilient organization ready to meet the challenges of the evolving carbon market.
The Commitment to Employee Development
At Tilad Environment Co., identifying and developing talent is crucial to the organization’s success in the environmental management sector. The company employs structured recruitment processes that assess technical skills and cultural fit, ensuring that new hires align with the core values of sustainability and collaboration. Regular performance reviews provide insights into employees’ strengths and areas for growth, helping to identify emerging talent and future leaders.
To develop talent, the company invests in comprehensive training programs that enhance technical expertise and essential soft skills, like leadership and teamwork. Clear career pathways offer employees transparency about growth opportunities, encouraging them to pursue their professional aspirations. Cross-departmental collaboration is also promoted, allowing employees to gain exposure to different aspects of the business.
Mentorship is integral to the company’s talent development strategy. It facilitates knowledge sharing between experienced professionals and newer employees, accelerating the learning process. Mentors provide support and guidance, helping mentees navigate their career paths while providing confidence. This relationship enhances networking opportunities and contributes to a culture of continuous learning, ultimately improving organizational performance. By investing in its people, Tilad Environment Co. cultivates a skilled and motivated workforce prepared to address environmental challenges.
Leadership Philosophy
Dr. Mohammed Al-Surf’s leadership philosophy is centered on collaboration, transparency, and empowerment. He believes that effective leadership involves creating an inclusive environment where all team members feel valued, heard, and motivated to contribute. To reflect this philosophy in the Carbon Department at Tilad Environment Co., he prioritizes open communication and active listening, maintaining an open-door policy that encourages team members to share their ideas and concerns. This approach provides trust and drives innovation, as diverse perspectives enhance problem-solving.
Dr. Mohammed Al-Surf also emphasizes professional development, investing in training, and providing opportunities for team members to enhance their skills in carbon management and environmental policies. By empowering individuals to take ownership of their work, he aims to cultivate a motivated and engaged team.
Furthermore, he strives to align departmental goals with the company’s broader mission of sustainability, helping everyone understand the impact of their contributions. Regular team meetings and progress reviews reinforce this connection, allowing the team to celebrate achievements and collaboratively address challenges. By providing a culture of collaboration, ensuring clear communication, and empowering his team, Dr. Mohammed Al-Surf believes the company can achieve their objectives and create a workplace passionate about making a positive environmental impact.
Key Takeaways from Dr. Mohammed Al-Surf’s Visionary Journey
- Tilad Environment Co. is a leading force for sustainability in the MENA region. Founded with a strong commitment to environmental stewardship, the company offers a wide range of services, from carbon management and ecosystem preservation to environmental impact assessments and sustainability consulting. They work to help businesses and communities reduce their environmental impact and build a healthier future.
- Dr. Mohammed Al-Surf is a key figure in driving this sustainability effort. As Director of the Carbon Department at Tilad and founder of several sustainability organizations, he is deeply committed to promoting green practices. His expertise and leadership are instrumental in guiding Tilad’s innovative approach to environmental solutions.
- Innovation and adaptation are core to Tilad’s strategy. The company constantly invests in research and development, uses advanced technology, and fosters a collaborative work environment to stay ahead of the curve. This allows them to offer cutting-edge solutions and adapt quickly to changing environmental regulations and client needs.
- The establishment of the Carbon Department was a significant step for Tilad. Recognizing the growing need for carbon management, the company created a dedicated department to help organizations measure and reduce their carbon footprints. This strategic move has expanded their services and attracted a wider range of clients.
- Tilad prioritizes employee development and collaboration. The company invests in training, mentorship, and clear career paths for its employees, fostering a skilled and motivated workforce. Dr. Mohammed Al-Surf’s leadership philosophy emphasizes open communication, empowerment, and a shared commitment to sustainability, creating a positive and productive work environment.
Company Overview –
| Featured Person | Dr. Mohammed Al-Surf, Carbon Department Director and Tilad Academy Director |
| Company Name | Tilad Environment Co. |
| Company Headquarters | Riyadh, Saudi Arabia |
| Founded Year | 2011 |
| Featured Person’s LinkedIn | https://www.linkedin.com/in/mohammedalsurf/ |
| Company URL | https://www.tilad.com.sa/ |
