A commitment to sustainability doesn’t start and end with planting trees every year on specific days dedicated to the earth. It means going above and beyond the quick-fix solutions and measuring the impact of every action and operation, especially in business where the need for profits can easily outrun the desire to keep the environment at the heart of activities. This is also why businesses need to root for developing sustainable solutions that balance profitability with ecological preservation. It is essential for the health of both our planet and our economies.

Achieving this balance not only safeguards natural resources but also ensures long-term business viability by reducing risks associated with environmental degradation and resource scarcity. Sustainable practices foster innovation and efficiency, leading to cost savings and new market opportunities, while also fulfilling the growing consumer demand for eco-friendly products. Ultimately, businesses that invest in sustainability contribute to a resilient and equitable future, where economic growth is harmonized with the well-being of the environment and society. By prioritizing sustainable solutions, we can create a prosperous world where both nature and commerce thrive.

This is where Franco Alfredo Cerda Dubó, a passionate leader in sustainability and aquiculture, assists in setting the tone in the development of innovative environmental solutions. His trajectory not only reflects a deep commitment to caring for the environment, but also a transformative vision that combines business profitability with ecological preservation.

Franco understands that sustainability isn’t limited to superficial initiatives but requires a systemic approach where each business action is evaluated based on its environmental impact. This approach allows companies not only to reduce risks associated with environmental degradation, but also to identify new market opportunities, ensure long-term viability, and respond to the growing demand for eco-friendly products.

As the Aquatic Sustainability Consultant at Tilad Environmental, Franco focuses on assisting its clients – both in the public and private sector – with achieving the environmental and sustainability Goals of Vision 2030. He leads the company in developing eco-friendly products that optimize marine resources while promoting environmental responsibility.

Leadership That Inspires Change

Franco’s professional journey began with a deep appreciation for the natural world and a desire to make a meaningful impact. With an academic background that includes study in aquaculture, a Doctorate, and a master’s in general Industry Management, he initially ventured into general business management, where he gained expertise in strategy development, multi-channel sales, and market research. Over time, Franco’s focus shifted toward aquaculture as he recognized its potential to address global food security challenges while promoting environmental stewardship.

His inspiration to focus on sustainability came from observing the critical state of the planet’s ecosystems and understanding the responsibility businesses have to operate sustainably. Franco has led the creation of innovative business models and high-quality products for aquaculture, including fish, mollusks, microalgae and aquaponic systems. These initiatives have reinforced its commitment to sustainable solutions that generate value for both companies and the planet.

Over the years, Franco has evolved from a manager of operations to a visionary leader in the aquaculture industry. He has embraced change management, integrated business planning, and customer-centric strategies to build organizations that are not only profitable but also resilient and sustainable. This journey has been both challenging and rewarding, and it continues to shape his vision for the future.

Environmental Solutions

Tilad Environmental Consultation offers a comprehensive range of services aimed at promoting environmental sustainability and wildlife conservation. It includes:

1. Veterinary Services: Comprehensive veterinary care for wildlife, including the management and operation of veterinary centers and hospitals, mobile veterinary clinics, and veterinary sports medicine. They also provide embryo transfer and implantation services, supply veterinary medical devices and equipment, and conduct veterinary research and studies.

2. Environmental Services: The company focuses on environmental consulting to assist clients in developing sustainable projects and programs. Their services aim to protect and enhance the environment in line with Saudi Vision 2030. This includes promoting biodiversity conservation, sustainable development, and applying cutting-edge scientific methodologies and technologies.

3. Marine Services: Marine services involve the conservation and management of marine ecosystems and resources. These services contribute to the overall goal of environmental sustainability and biodiversity conservation.

Franco at Tilad Environmental

In his role as Aquatic Sustainability Consultant at Tilad Environmental, Franco leads the creation of innovative and sustainable products that optimize marine resources and minimize environmental impact. Under his leadership, Tilad has consolidated its position as a benchmark in aquatic sustainability, aligning its operations with the environmental goals of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030.

Franco oversees services that include:

• Development of Aquaculture Systems: Implementation of technologies such as closed-loop systems and aquaponics.
• Sustainability Consulting: Design of strategies to minimize environmental impact.
• Product Innovation: Creation of high-quality products from marine and freshwater ecosystems.
• Community Engagement: Training and empowering local communities to foster sustainable practices.

What sets Tilad apart is its unwavering commitment to sustainability. It leverages cutting-edge technologies and practices to ensure that its operations align with global environmental standards. Additionally, its focus on biodiversity, customer-centric solutions, and integrated planning distinguishes us as a market leader.

“We don’t just aim to meet industry benchmarks; we strive to redefine them,” remarks Franco.

Transforming Aquatic Sustainability with Technology

Franco views technology as a game-changer for aquatic sustainability. Artificial Intelligence (AI) and the Internet of Things (IoT) are enabling unprecedented levels of monitoring, analysis, and intervention. For example:

• AI-Powered Data Analysis: AI algorithms can process vast amounts of data from satellites, drones, and underwater sensors to detect patterns, such as illegal fishing activities or coral bleaching events. This allows for quicker, more informed decision-making.
• IoT for Real-Time Monitoring: IoT devices, like smart buoys and underwater sensors, can continuously track water quality parameters (e.g., temperature, salinity, pH) and send alerts if anomalies are detected. This is particularly useful for aquaculture farms to maintain optimal conditions for fish and other aquatic species.
• Predictive Modeling: AI can predict the impact of climate change on aquatic ecosystems, help policymakers and conservationists plan for the future. For instance, it can forecast how rising sea levels might affect coastal communities or how ocean acidification could impact shellfish populations.
• Automation in Aquaculture: IoT-enabled systems can automate feeding, monitor fish health, and optimize resource use, reducing waste and improving efficiency in fish farming.

“By integrating these technologies, the aquatic sustainability industry can become more proactive, efficient, and resilient in addressing environmental challenges,” says Franco.

Profitability V/s Sustainability

Franco acknowledges that balancing profitability with sustainability is one of the biggest challenges for businesses to adopt such practices. His approach has been to implement change management strategies in multicultural environments, integrating advanced technologies into traditional aquaculture systems and fostering a sustainability-focused business culture.

In addition, it has promoted a methodology based on measurable objectives, continuous monitoring, collaboration with stakeholders and compliance with international standards, such as ASC, Global GAP and ISO 14001 certifications.

Challenges in the Aquatic Sustainability Sector

Currently, the aquatic sustainability sector faces several interconnected challenges. Franco lists out the major issues and possible solutions as under:

• Pollution:
  • Plastic Waste: Millions of tons of plastic enter oceans annually, harming marine life. Solutions include banning single-use plastics, improving recycling infrastructure, and promoting biodegradable alternatives.
  • Chemical Runoff: Pesticides and fertilizers from agriculture contaminate water bodies. Implementing buffer zones and adopting organic farming practices can mitigate this.
• Overfishing:
  • Depleting Fish Stocks: Overfishing disrupts marine ecosystems and threatens food security. Enforcing fishing quotas, promoting sustainable fishing methods, and supporting aquaculture rewelding can help restore balance.
• Climate Change:
  • Rising Temperatures: Warmer waters stress marine species and disrupt ecosystems. Reducing greenhouse gas emissions and protecting critical habitats like coral reefs are essential.
  • Ocean Acidification: Increased CO2 levels lower ocean pH, affecting shellfish and coral. Reducing carbon emissions and researching resilient species are key steps.
• Habitat Destruction:
  • Coastal Development: Urbanization destroys mangroves, wetlands, and coral reefs. Restoring these habitats and enforcing stricter development regulations can help.

Addressing these challenges, observes Franco, requires a multi-faceted approach involving governments, industries, and communities, supported by innovative technologies and policies.

Featured Projects Led by Franco

Under his leadership, Tilad has implemented key projects, such as:

• Marine Biodiversity Restoration: Initiatives for coral reef recovery and marine habitat protection.
• Aquaponic Systems: Development of integrated solutions that promote circular economies.
• Microalgae Farming: Innovations in Sustainable Protein and Carbon Sequestration.
• Wastewater Management: Recycling Systems to Reduce Pollution and Conserve Water Resources.

Ensuring Effectiveness

Franco makes sure that all the sustainability initiatives are guided by a comprehensive framework that includes the following:

• Measurable Goals: Establishing clear, achievable objectives for reducing environmental impact.
• Continuous Monitoring: Using advanced analytics and real-time data to track progress and identify areas for improvement.
• Stakeholder Collaboration: Engaging with local communities, industry experts, and policymakers to align efforts and amplify impact.
• Certification and Compliance: Adhering to global standards and obtaining certifications that validate its commitment to sustainability.

“By integrating sustainability into every aspect of operations—from product development to supply chain management—we ensure that the initiatives are not only effective but also scalable and replicable,” he says.

Mitigating the Impact of Climate Change

Climate change is one of the most significant threats to aquatic ecosystems. Its impacts include:

• Rising Sea Levels: Coastal habitats like mangroves and salt marshes are being submerged, reducing their ability to protect shorelines and support biodiversity.
• Ocean Warming: Higher temperatures cause coral bleaching, disrupt species migration patterns, and increase the frequency of harmful algal blooms.
• Ocean Acidification: Excess CO2 absorption lowers pH levels, making it difficult for shellfish and corals to build their skeletons.
• Extreme Weather Events: More frequent hurricanes and storms damage coastal ecosystems and increase sedimentation in water bodies.

Franco suggests mitigation measures as:

• Global Emission Reduction: Transitioning to renewable energy and adopting sustainable practices to reduce carbon footprints.
• Ecosystem Restoration: Rebuilding mangroves, seagrasses, and coral reefs to enhance resilience.
• Marine Protected Areas (MPAs): Establishing and expanding MPAs to safeguard vulnerable ecosystems.
• Research and Innovation: Investing in technologies like carbon capture and studying climate-resilient species.

Role of Policymakers

Governments and policymakers are pivotal in creating an enabling environment for aquatic sustainability. Their roles include:

• Regulatory Frameworks: Enforcing laws to prevent pollution, overfishing, and habitat destruction. For example, the European Union’s Common Fisheries Policy sets sustainable fishing quotas.
• Funding and Incentives: Providing grants and subsidies for conservation projects, research, and sustainable practices.
• International Cooperation: Collaborating on global initiatives like the Paris Agreement and the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
• Public Awareness Campaigns: Educating citizens about the importance of aquatic ecosystems and how to protect them.
• Support for Innovation: Encouraging the development and adoption of green technologies, such as AI and IoT, for aquatic conservation.

By taking a leadership role, governments can drive systemic change and ensure long-term sustainability.

Collective Efforts

While policymakers can only set up the guidelines and manage the requirements at a large level, the act of conservation boils down to individual efforts as well. Franco believes that individuals and communities have the power to make a significant impact through collective action. They can:

• Reduce Plastic Use: Opt for reusable bags, bottles, and containers to minimize plastic waste. Participate in beach or river clean-up events.
• Support Sustainable Seafood: Choose seafood certified by organizations like the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) to promote responsible fishing practices.
• Conserve Water: Fix leaks, use water-efficient appliances, and avoid overwatering lawns to reduce freshwater consumption.
• Advocate for Change: Support policies and organizations focused on aquatic conservation. Write to local representatives or join environmental advocacy groups.
• Education and Inspire: Share knowledge about aquatic ecosystems with friends, family, and social networks to raise awareness.
• Participate in Restoration Projects: Volunteer for initiatives like planting mangroves, restoring wetlands, or monitoring coral reefs.

“Every small action contributes to a larger movement toward preserving aquatic ecosystems for future generations,” says Franco.

Local Engagement

Franco believes that Community engagement is a cornerstone when it comes to promoting environmental awareness and sustainability. This can be achieved through:

• Conducting Educational Workshops: Teaching sustainable aquaculture practices and environmental stewardship.
• Creating Employment Opportunities: Empowering local populations through job creation and skill development.
• Supporting Local Initiatives: Partnering with community organizations to address specific environmental challenges.
• Promoting Awareness Campaigns: Using social media and local events to raise awareness about sustainability issues.

Inspiration and Perspective

Franco shares a clear message for other business leaders:

“Sustainability is not a cost, but a strategic investment that ensures long-term viability. Start with a clear vision, engage your teams, and measure your progress with transparency.”

Vision for the Future

Franco envisions a future where sustainability is at the core of all business operations. To achieve this, he is committed to:

• Continuous Innovation: Investment in research and development to explore new technologies.
• Global Collaborations: Creating strategic alliances to amplify impact.
• Community Empowerment: Strengthening the relationship with local communities through education and job creation.

Franco Alfredo Cerda Dubó not only leads, but inspires transformative change, demonstrating that it is possible to combine business excellence with environmental preservation for a prosperous and balanced future.

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Guiding Words:

“We do not inherit the Earth from our ancestors; we borrow it from our children.” – Native American Proverb.

“This quote reminds me of the responsibility we bear to protect our planet for future generations. It fuels my commitment to sustainable practices and inspires my work ,” says Franco.