For every new building, a subsoil investigation must be carried out as the basis for structural planning, accompanied by a geotechnical report prepared in accordance with DIN 4020. At SIERA Alliance, our mission for geotechnical planning is to provide comprehensive subsoil investigations and foundation planning that address both engineering and environmental concerns. We optimize foundation solutions, especially in complex inner-city situations, ensuring they align with deconstruction and environmental requirements, thereby avoiding duplication of efforts and clarifying critical paths early in the construction process.
What we do?
SIERA Alliance is dedicated to delivering precise and thorough geotechnical planning services. Our geotechnical engineering department examines subsoil according to engineering geological aspects and advises on optimizing foundation designs and necessary auxiliary structures in special civil engineering. We provide design and planning for earthworks, excavation, and foundation planning, including shoring walls, underpinning, sealing, and water retention measures. Our efforts ensure that construction projects have a solid and reliable foundation, addressing both structural and environmental needs.
How we do it?
Our approach to geotechnical planning is meticulous and integrated. We start with a detailed subsoil investigation and foundation/pit planning, which helps avoid duplication of efforts during deconstruction and remediation planning. We conduct earth static calculations according to DIN EN 1997-1, make settlement predictions, and optimize subgrade reaction coefficients. Our team handles water law permit applications, tenders earthworks, and special civil engineering measures, provides cost estimates, and offers expert opinions on neighborhood permission agreements. This comprehensive process ensures that all aspects of geotechnical planning are covered efficiently and effectively.
Empowering Change
Geotechnical planning through SIERA Alliance empowers transformative change by ensuring that new buildings have a solid, well-planned foundation. Our services reduce the risks associated with subsoil conditions, enhance structural integrity, and integrate environmental considerations into foundation planning. By providing expert guidance and innovative solutions, we help clients navigate complex geotechnical challenges and achieve their construction goals sustainably.
Innovative Approaches: At SIERA Alliance, innovation is central to our geotechnical planning strategies. We employ advanced techniques and technologies to conduct precise subsoil investigations and optimize foundation designs. Our innovative approaches include using state-of-the-art engineering geological assessments and specialized civil engineering solutions, ensuring that foundations are robust, efficient, and environmentally friendly.
Strategic Partnerships: Our success in geotechnical planning is bolstered by strategic partnerships with industry experts, regulatory bodies, and environmental organizations. These collaborations enhance our ability to provide comprehensive and effective geotechnical solutions. By working closely with our partners, we ensure that our projects meet the highest standards of safety, compliance, and environmental protection.
Long-term Impact: The long-term impact of our geotechnical planning initiatives is significant, ensuring the structural integrity and sustainability of new buildings. By providing thorough subsoil investigations and optimized foundation solutions, we contribute to the longevity and stability of structures, reducing future maintenance and repair needs. Our commitment to sustainable geotechnical practices ensures that our projects deliver lasting benefits for both the environment and the built environment, fostering resilience and sustainability.
We empower industries to explore the opportunities for market leadership through strategic transformation.
In the mid-2000s my involvement in development aid took me to some of the most remote and impoverished regions of the world.
Northern Tibet, Mongolia, and Western China – where I was involved with the implementation of decentralised wastewater treatment systems, I realised I needed a deeper purpose. Though I later found success in real estate development, the desire to make a lasting impact never left me.
A pivotal moment occurred when I was invited to Ghana by my friend and mentor, Cardinal Peter Turkson, who was the head of the Dicastery for the Promotion of Integral Human Development of the Catholic Church at the time. He has since been appointed the Pontifical Chancellor of the Academy of Sciences and the Pontifical Chancellor of Social Sciences.
Cardinal Turkson had a profound influence on me. His invitation gave me the opportunity to witness firsthand the development needs of the country. We reflected on my experiences in China, and together, we envisioned a model of development that would take root in one community and gradually expand. We believed that small, strategic steps could lead to lasting transformation – just like the biblical parable of the mustard seed, which grows into something far greater than its humble beginnings.
Cardinal Turkson’s steadfast belief in this vision and encouragement became the base upon which the Mustard Seed Foundation was built. His unwavering support, wisdom, and guidance helped shape not just the mission of the Foundation, but my personal journey as well.
With the encouragement of the Cardinal and the Integral Human Development (IHD) office, we initially operated with the IHD before establishing the Mustard Seed Foundation as a stand-alone organisation in Germany. We have been fortunate to receive support from numerous European donors, a humble reminder that our mission is not just about individual efforts – it is about collective impact.
Collaboration has been a cornerstone of our work. We have partnered with organisations like Caritas and Rotary International to extend our reach. One of our most impactful collaborations has been with M&P Group, who donate their engineering concepts, project supervision, and high-quality technical execution, allowing 100% of donor contributions to go into the projects themselves.
One such initiative is the Clean Water Initiative, launched in partnership with M&P Group. In 2024, we completed a well in Ndoss, Senegal, significantly improving agricultural efficiency and empowering the local community. This project epitomises our commitment to sustainable solutions – starting with clean water and gradually building infrastructure that supports long-term development.
Our work aligns closely with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), focusing on poverty alleviation, economic empowerment, environmental sustainability, and humanitarian aid. Our model is simple but effective: start with one project and expand, year by year, to create an ecosystem of support. A water well leads to a school, which leads to renewable energy solutions, which, in turn, fosters economic opportunities. Over time, these efforts cumulatively transform entire regions.
The Mustard Seed Foundation is a testament to what can be achieved with nothing more than a vision, a strong commitment, and the faith of a mustard seed. Yet, none of this would have been possible without the belief and encouragement of Cardinal Peter Turkson. His unwavering faith in our mission gave me the courage to persevere through challenges and continue expanding our impact. As we continue our work, we remain driven by the belief that small beginnings can yield great outcomes, inspiring hope and lasting change in the communities we serve. His legacy of faith, vision, and commitment to human dignity is deeply woven into every initiative we undertake.
