Interviewer: Mohammed, thank you for joining us today. You’ve made a significant impact with your work at NABATIK, Saudi Arabia’s first climate technology startup. Could you start by telling us what inspired you to create NABATIK?
Mohammed Alkhalid: Thank you for having me. The inspiration for NABATIK actually began in my childhood. I was seven years old when my father took me to a barren plot of land in a new residential area. He handed me a shovel, a potted plant, and a bottle of water. Together, we planted that tree. It was a simple act, but it left a lasting impression on me. Twenty years later, I revisited that plot of land and found that the tree had grown into a magnificent presence. That moment rekindled my passion for nature and inspired me to take action on a larger scale.
Interviewer: That’s a powerful story. How did you transition from that experience to founding NABATIK in 2019?
Mohammed Alkhalid: After that experience, I made a personal pledge to contribute to the environment in a meaningful way. My background is in mechanical engineering, so I naturally gravitate towards innovative, technology-driven solutions. I realized that I could combine my technical expertise with my passion for the environment to create something impactful. That’s how NABATIK was born. Our goal is to make tree planting affordable and accessible for both individuals and corporations, while also aligning with the Saudi Green Initiative’s aim to plant 10 billion trees in Saudi Arabia.
Interviewer: NABATIK has a unique business model that leverages technology to lower the cost of tree planting. Can you explain how this model works and why it’s so important?
Mohammed Alkhalid: Our model is built on the idea that technology can make environmental initiatives more efficient and scalable. By utilizing the latest technological trends, we’re able to reduce the costs associated with planting trees. This makes it easier for corporations to participate in our programs and contribute to offsetting their carbon emissions. The more companies that get involved, the greater the impact we can have. It’s a win-win situation: businesses can meet their sustainability goals, and we can move closer to achieving the Saudi Green Initiative.
Interviewer: You’ve also been recognized as a finalist in the United Nations Environment Programme’s Young Champion of Earth award. What does this recognition mean to you and NABATIK?
Mohammed Alkhalid: It’s an incredible honor to be recognized by the United Nations Environment Programme. This recognition not only validates the work we’re doing at NABATIK but also highlights the importance of integrating technology with Nature-Based Solutions to combat climate change. It’s a reminder that our efforts are making a difference and that there’s a global community supporting this cause. For me, it’s motivation to keep pushing forward and to continue innovating.
Interviewer: Speaking of innovation, what are some of the key challenges you’ve faced in establishing NABATIK, and how have you overcome them?
Mohammed Alkhalid: One of the biggest challenges has been raising awareness and convincing companies of the long-term benefits of tree planting. Many businesses are focused on short-term gains, so it takes effort to show them that investing in the environment is also an investment in their future. We’ve overcome this by providing clear data on the positive impact of tree planting, both environmentally and economically. Additionally, our use of technology to lower costs has made it easier for companies to get on board. Another challenge has been scaling our operations to meet the growing demand, but we’ve managed this by building strong partnerships and continuously refining our processes.
Interviewer: What’s next for NABATIK? How do you see the company evolving in the coming years?
Mohammed Alkhalid: Our immediate goal is to reach our target of planting 1 million trees by 2023. Beyond that, we’re looking to expand our operations and explore new ways to integrate technology into our environmental initiatives. We’re also focused on increasing community engagement and education around the importance of tree planting and sustainability. In the long term, I see NABATIK becoming a leader not just in Saudi Arabia, but globally, in the field of climate technology and Nature-Based Solutions.
Interviewer: Finally, what advice would you give to young entrepreneurs who are passionate about making a difference in the environment?
Mohammed Alkhalid: My advice would be to start small but think big. It’s important to have a vision, but it’s equally important to take actionable steps towards that vision, no matter how small they may seem. Don’t be afraid to innovate and to use your unique skills to address the challenges we face. And most importantly, stay committed. The work we do in the environmental space can be challenging, but it’s incredibly rewarding. Every tree planted, every initiative launched, is a step towards a better, more sustainable future.
Interviewer: Thank you, Mohammed, for sharing your journey and insights with us. Your work with NABATIK is truly inspiring, and we wish you continued success in your mission to make the world a greener place.
Mohammed Alkhalid: Thank you, it’s been a pleasure talking with you. I appreciate the support and look forward to continuing this important work.
