- Former Grab exec Reuben Lai tackles Southeast Asia’s rapid deforestation.
- Arkadiah aims to restore regional forests lost yearly by using AI to identify degraded lands for reforestation.
- Blending profit and purpose, Arkadiah capitalizes on the booming demand for quantifiable nature-based solutions.
Arkadiah’s nature tech mission
Former Grab and Singtel digibank leader Reuben Lai is tackling Southeast Asia’s rapid deforestation with his new nature tech venture Arkadiah.
The Singapore-based startup uses AI to identify degraded lands for reforestation and agroforestry projects.
As CEO, Lai aims to generate top-tier biodiversity credits and carbon removal to restore regional forests lost at an estimated 1.2% yearly rate – among the world’s highest.
Arkadiah’s data-driven model also tracks the impact of its efforts as the broader sector eyes a $20-30 billion opportunity.
Blend of profit and purpose
Lai departed ride-hailing giant Grab in late 2022 after nearly 7 years of managing fintech strategy and initiatives.
He brings valuable insights into high-growth spaces and harnessing technology for sustainability.
With Arkadiah, Lai hopes to blend profit and purpose, capitalizing on the booming demand for quantifiable nature-based solutions.
The startup could seed critical early progress if its AI-powered reforestation model scales.
