connecting living and built environments
connecting living and built environments
about GINKGO
We believe that small positive steps can have a big environmental impact.
Ginkgo Sustainability was founded in 2010 with a mission to connect living and built environments. We see an economically viable way to live in urban cities that create meaningful jobs, build mindful communities and advance responsible ESG investments.
In Canada we were one of the first, today we are the largest installer of green roofs with 3.2 million square feet covered and counting. We help clients achieve and maintain their green buildings with hands-on expertise, quality workmanship at a fair price, and a safety-first and last policy.
Over the years we have developed and introduced more products and services. Our living walls and maintenance divisions have grown to new heights. We now offer air purification and monitoring systems, grounds, planters and moss art installations. An organic approach to doing business means you can always count on solutions tailored to your needs.
Today business is augmented by technology and ours is no different. We developed SoiLiNQ™, a SaaS based soil monitoring system designed for green construction, agriculture and landscape professionals. To stay ahead of the curve, we built a Canadian Research and Development Centre bringing high quality, best in class air filtration systems and smart green walls to the market. We are positioned to respond to the needs of our time.
Experience. Each of us brings our own, and our team are masters of their crafts. Their knowledge extends to environmental studies, biophilic design, plant design, landscape architecture, and human behavioural sciences, making us well placed to lead you to green.
Connecting living and built environments is our small step to ensure that like the Ginkgo tree we named ourselves after, we prosper for generations to come.
what we do
Rely on us.
We want you to understand your options pre and post construction. With strategies to take you through every stage of the building process, our insight makes for a smooth on-site.
Our consulting portfolio is turn-key and includes assistance with structural assessments and green infrastructure feasibility studies. We begin with an introduction to the applications and benefits of biophilic design. Creating intentional spaces makes for a better connection between nature and humans and optimizes the health of our cities. We can facilitate your building achieving LEED and WELL certifications, both points-based credit systems that recognize your company’s commitment to advancing better building and better employee well-being.
If you are considering a green roof, a living wall, or other living architecture we’ll help you make an informed decision.
Custom design plans.
Solutions that speak to your vision, created in Computer-Aided Design (CAD). Our collaborative approach starts with listening. It’s followed up with recommendations based on decades of combined experience on hundreds of green projects. Decisions that consider every facet of the project from form to function and built to be environmentally and economically sound.
We support your individuality and work to have it reflected in the finished project.
We know the right stuff.
In 2009 Toronto was the first city in North America to introduce a Green Roof by-law for new development and additions that are greater than 2,000 m² in gross floor area to integrate natural vegetation. We were there.
As installers of green infrastructure in commercial, institutional, industrial, multi-unit and single residential construction we offer experience, and support you can count on. Our certified crews are trained by the manufacturers of the roof and wall systems, making us well equipped to recommend the one that best meets your building and your sustainability goals.
Our roof install service includes assisting you through the permit process and submitting to municipal green roof incentive programmes. Grant funding applies to vegetative metres covered and can include savings on structural assessments.
We take no shortcuts. Our safety standards are exceptionally high which is why our first step is always a site evaluation to determine that access points are secure before crews begin.
Trust us to do it right.
Use a specialist, not a generalist.
Ongoing maintenance is integral to protecting your green roof and living walls. Maintenance is a control measure that can avert potential costly future repairs. Regular scheduled site inspections keep on top of invasive species and weeds so that your roof is debris free, and your system warranties are intact.
Customized living walls require service checks for irrigation and to ensure that drains aren’t blocked so plants get the nutrients they need. We check on the stress levels of plants to keep disease and pests at bay. Fertilization, light optimization and pruning at the right time keeps the living products flourishing.
Your investment deserves attention and protection.
Our approach to innovation is to develop, design and deliver products that influence the ecosystem today and tomorrow.
We are introducing SoiLiNQ™ a dynamic, extensible soil monitoring system designed for sustainable construction, agriculture and landscaping professionals. Our GreenTech solution delivers a new approach to maintenance that connects and protects your green assets. The goal is to provide your business with transparent, scientifically sound, actionable data that lowers your operational costs and increases your profitability. It can be accessed anytime, anywhere on any wireless device.
GINKGO Air offers a product line of air purification systems. Aether, Stomata and Smart Green Walls are all designed and built to absorb harmful VOCs found in products we use daily that can have adverse effects on our health. 90% of our time is spent indoors where we are exposed to toxins. Our suite of systems are low to no maintenance, self-monitoring and fully customized.
We want to create green building literacy.
Our team is eager to share our industry expertise and supporting evidence-based research so more corporations, individuals and institutions respond to the ESG call to action. Building greener is a purposeful investment that impacts the life of constructed spaces and their occupants.
Customized outreach programs geared to your industry are available on multiple platforms. Webinars, speaking engagements and think-tanks designed for your group and your goals.
We advocate for green inclusion.
our products
GINKGO
green roofs
GINKGO
living walls
GINKGO
air
GINKGO
maintenance
GINKGO
grounds & planters
GINKGO
moss art
projects
- Build: Institutional
- Type: Installation, Maintenance
Situated along a bank of windows, this living roof brings nature to the students, and is one of several environmentally-friendly[...]
- Build: Multi-Use
- Type: Installation, Maintenance
This wrap around splendour of sedum was installed in 2021. Part of the Sugar Wharf condo development in downtown Toronto[...]
- Build: Institutional
- Type: Installation
The sloped living roof on this City of Waterloo property not only helps the building meet its energy usage goals,[...]
- Build: Institutional
- Type: Installation, Maintenance
The living roof of this rooftop terrace features a variety of vegetation along with extensive interlocking stone terrace areas, also[...]
- Build: Multi-Unit (Strata)
- Type: Installation, Maintenance
As a feature of this environmentally friendly and sustainable condominium, this living roof contributes to the building’s energy efficiency and[...]
- Build: Institutional
- Type: Installation, Maintenance
In 2015, the Institute attained LEED Silver certification for environmental sustainability; a designation to which this living roof, spread over[...]
- Build: Institutional
- Type: Installation, Maintenance
Built according to the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Standards – Silver, the Golding Centre’s green roof was[...]
These living roof areas will help improve this building’s energy efficiency while improving its aesthetic appeal.
[...]- Build: Institutional
- Type: Installation, Maintenance
Divided into three section and covering a significant portion of the school’s roof, this living roof provides energy savings while[...]
- Build: Institutional
- Type: Installation, Maintenance
Goodes Hall, home of Queen’s University School of Business, blends an old Victorian schoolhouse with contemporary architecture; these three living[...]
- Build: Multi-Unit (Strata)
- Type: Installation, Maintenance
Visible from the building’s amenity space and resident balconies, these two living roofs bring nature to the residents of this[...]
- Build: Commercial
- Type: Installation, Maintenance
Installed on the roof of the Sherway Gardens expansion project, this living roof is the largest vegetated roof on a[...]
- Build: Residential - Private
- Type: Installation
Located on the garage roof of a private residence, this living roof provides energy savings while enhancing the view for[...]
- Build: Institutional
- Type: Installation, Maintenance
Installed alongside rooftop terraces, this extensive living roof provides a space for faculty and staff to enjoy the outdoors. As[...]
- Build: Institutional
- Type: Installation, Maintenance
Designed to meet LEED Gold certification criteria, the Village includes these two extensive green roofs, along with paving stone pathways,[...]
- Build: Institutional
- Type: Installation
The semi-intensive living roof installed at the Queensway Health Centre is one aspect of Trillium Health Partners green conservation measures[...]
- Build: Residential - Strata
- Type: Installation, Maintenance
Contributing to West Village’s LEED Gold certification, is this living roof which helps conserve energy usage while reducing rainwater run-off.
[...]- Build: Institutional
- Type: Installation, Maintenance
Part of a building rehabilitation program designed to repair the building’s structural issues, this living roof, with its membrane leak[...]
- Build: Multi-Unit (Strata)
- Type: Installation, Maintenance
Installed alongside the outdoor amenity space, this living roof brings nature to the residents while improving the building’s energy performance[...]
- Build: Institutional
- Type: Installation
This extensive retrofit provides energy savings to the building while providing a beautiful rooftop meadow.
[...]- Build: Multi-Unit (Strata)
- Type: Installation, Maintenance
Providing natural and green roofs to the building’s residents, this living provides both aesthetic appeal and energy savings.
[...]- Build: Commercial
- Type: Installation, Maintenance
Located above the cafeteria, this green roof helps reduce the building’s cooling load, thereby contributing to the overall reduction in[...]
- Build: Institutional
- Type: Installation, Maintenance
This living roof improves this MTO building’s energy usage and also helps to reduce stormwater runoff.
[...]- Build: Institutional
- Type: Installation, Maintenance
Designed to meet LEED Gold certification criteria, the Village includes these two extensive green roofs, along with paving stone pathways,[...]
- Build: Institutional
- Type: Installation
Designed to help Station 106 integrate into its surrounding environment, this green roof provides energy savings to the building and[...]
- Build: Commercial
- Type: Installation, Maintenance
Installed alongside solar installations, this living roof is one feature that helps this building reduce its energy costs.
[...]- Build: Institutional
- Type: Installation, Maintenance
These living roofs are incorporated into the architecture of Centennial College’s Ashtonbee Campus renewal. Incorporating innovative engineering and sustainability features,[...]
- Build: Multi-Unit (Strata)
- Type: Installation, Maintenance
Abutting the rooftop terrace, this extensive living roof improves the building’s energy performance while providing a pleasing aesthetic space for[...]
- Build: Institutional
- Type: Maintenance
Situated alongside water treatment tanks, the vegetation on these two living roof areas had begun to grow into the root-free[...]
- Build: Residential - Private
- Type: Installation, Maintenance
The living roofs on this private residence are expansive and enhance the integration of the home with its surroundings.
[...]- Build: Multi-Unit (Strata)
- Type: Installation, Maintenance
Designed by GINKGO, these living roofs grow adjacent to the condominium penthouse, enhances the aesthetic of the unit’s amenity space[...]
- Build: Institutional
- Type: Installation, Maintenance
Included in the addition and renovation to the Bayview Glen School is this living roof. Not only does it provide[...]
- Build: Multi-Unit (Strata)
- Type: Installation, Maintenance
This living roof, visible from the building’s residential suites, not only enhances views, but also contributes to stormwater management requirements.
[...]- Build: Commercial, Multi-Unit (Strata)
- Type: Installation, Maintenance
The Hullmark Centre’s green roof serves to help reduce the urban heat island effect and provides insulation while improving the[...]
- Build: Commercial
- Type: Installation, Maintenance
Providing extensive vegetated cover, this living roof improves energy efficiency while mitigating the urban heat island effect and enhancing the[...]
- Build: Institutional
- Type: Installation, Maintenance
Situated on the roof of RIM Park’s GreenLab, which incorporates a number of sustainable features, including solar panels, this living[...]
- Build: Institutional
- Type: Installation, Maintenance
Nestled into the bustling centre of Toronto, this stairway to class is one of many natural elements integrated into the[...]
- Build: Commercial
- Type: Maintenance
These bold living columns brighten up the workspace of an independent health agency in downtown Toronto. The hydroponic system features[...]
- Build: Residential - Private
- Type: Installation, Maintenance
Installed in late spring 2016, this exterior living wall was designed to complement the facade of a new garage built[...]
- Build: Commercial
- Type: Design, Installation, Maintenance
Design, installed and maintained by GINKGO, this living wall is one of our largest to date. The wall incorporates tropical[...]
- Build: Commercial
- Type: Maintenance
Momentum Dental Wellness Collective is home to a DIRTT Breathe living wall maintained by GINKGO. These walls are great for[...]
- Build: Institutional
- Type: Maintenance
This impressive green structure makes a visual statement at the Regions’ multi-service government office. Due to its exceptional height our[...]
- Build: Commercial
- Type: Installation
A collaborative effort between ByNature and GINKGO, this living wall in the office of a financial services company provides visual[...]
- Build: Commercial
- Type: Installation, Maintenance, Manufacture
Designed to complement Arc Media’s tech-savvy and innovative spirit, this GinkgoWall system manages itself through automatic self-contained irrigation and full-spectrum[...]
- Build: Commercial
- Type: Installation, Maintenance
Designed to create a truly unique shopping experience, this living wall enhances Melmira’s stunning retail space with the beauty and[...]
- Build: Institutional
- Type: Maintenance
This patterned living wall introduces biophilic components to the atrium of a private Toronto school. The abstract pattern brings to[...]
- Build: Commercial
- Type: Installation, Maintenance
Installed in the reception area of the International Association of Heat and Frost Insulators’ new office and training space, this[...]
- Build: Institutional
- Type: Maintenance
Installed by others and maintained by GINKGO, this hydroponic living wall incorporates a variety of tropical plants in a flowing[...]
- Build: Institutional
- Type: Design, Installation, Maintenance
After a major renovation, the Bata Research and Innovation Cluster at Trent University re-opened in November 2018 featuring a living[...]
- Build: Residential - Private
- Type: Installation, Maintenance
The living roofs on this private residence are expansive and enhance the integration of the home with its surroundings.
[...]- Build: Institutional
- Type: Design, Installation, Maintenance
After a major renovation, the Bata Research and Innovation Cluster at Trent University re-opened in November 2018 featuring a living[...]
- Build: Commercial
- Type: Installation, Maintenance
Designed to create a truly unique shopping experience, this living wall enhances Melmira’s stunning retail space with the beauty and[...]
- Build: Commercial
- Type: Maintenance
Momentum Dental Wellness Collective is home to a DIRTT Breathe living wall maintained by GINKGO. These walls are great for[...]
- Build: Institutional
- Type: Installation, Maintenance
Installed alongside rooftop terraces, this extensive living roof provides a space for faculty and staff to enjoy the outdoors. As[...]
- Build: Institutional
- Type: Installation, Maintenance
Nestled into the bustling centre of Toronto, this stairway to class is one of many natural elements integrated into the[...]
- Build: Multi-Use
- Type: Installation, Maintenance
This wrap around splendour of sedum was installed in 2021. Part of the Sugar Wharf condo development in downtown Toronto[...]
- Build: Commercial
- Type: Installation, Maintenance
Installed alongside solar installations, this living roof is one feature that helps this building reduce its energy costs.
[...]- Build: Institutional
- Type: Maintenance
Institutional spaces like hospitals are enriched when nature is incorporated into the design. Globally, healing environments can serve patients and[...]
- Build: Commercial
- Type: Installation, Maintenance, Manufacture
Designed to complement Arc Media’s tech-savvy and innovative spirit, this GinkgoWall system manages itself through automatic self-contained irrigation and full-spectrum[...]
- Build: Commercial
- Type: Installation, Maintenance
Installed in the reception area of the International Association of Heat and Frost Insulators’ new office and training space, this[...]
- Build: Institutional
- Type: Maintenance
Situated alongside water treatment tanks, the vegetation on these two living roof areas had begun to grow into the root-free[...]
- Build: Institutional
- Type: Maintenance
This patterned living wall introduces biophilic components to the atrium of a private Toronto school. The abstract pattern brings to[...]
These living roof areas will help improve this building’s energy efficiency while improving its aesthetic appeal.
[...]- Build: Institutional
- Type: Maintenance
Installed by others and maintained by GINKGO, this hydroponic living wall incorporates a variety of tropical plants in a flowing[...]
- Build: Commercial
- Type: Maintenance
These bold living columns brighten up the workspace of an independent health agency in downtown Toronto. The hydroponic system features[...]
- Build: Institutional
- Type: Maintenance
This impressive green structure makes a visual statement at the Regions’ multi-service government office. Due to its exceptional height our[...]
- Build: Residential - Private
- Type: Installation
Located on the garage roof of a private residence, this living roof provides energy savings while enhancing the view for[...]
- Build: Commercial
- Type: Design, Installation, Maintenance
Design, installed and maintained by GINKGO, this living wall is one of our largest to date. The wall incorporates tropical[...]
- Build: Commercial
- Type: Installation
This mossart piece was installed by GINKGO in the shared office space of Canada Pooch and Open Farm Inc. It[...]
- Build: Commercial
- Type: Installation
This unique mixed mossart piece features preserved sheet moss, pole moss, and fern moss, accentuated by preserved fern folia. The[...]
- Build: Commercial
- Type: Installation
This patterned mosswall was installed in a commercial space in Waterloo, and acts as the backdrop to the newly opened[...]
- Build: Commercial
- Type: Installation
Icebreaker, specializing in outdoor performance clothing made with natural fibres, recognizes the value of designing with nature. GINKGO installed this[...]
- Build: Commercial
- Type: Installation
Installed in 2016, these two Mossart green walls composed of reindeer lichen and with sizes of 23.5 sq. ft. and[...]
- Build: Institutional
- Type: Installation
University of Waterloo start-up incubator Velocity chose a preserved reindeer moss logo, supplied and installed by GINKGO, to brand the[...]
- Build: Commercial
- Type: Installation
A mix of both light and dark green reindeer moss, the Greenfield Global Inc. mossart piece is one of our[...]
- Green Roofs
- Build: Multi-Unit (Strata)
- Type: Installation, Maintenance
Installed alongside the outdoor amenity space, this living roof brings nature to the residents while improving the building’s energy performance[...]
- Green Roofs
- Build: Institutional
- Type: Installation, Maintenance
Goodes Hall, home of Queen’s University School of Business, blends an old Victorian schoolhouse with contemporary architecture; these three living[...]
- Moss Art
- Build: Commercial
- Type: Installation
Installed in 2016, these two Mossart green walls composed of reindeer lichen and with sizes of 23.5 sq. ft. and[...]
testimonials
What our satisfied clients are saying about us.
teamwork makes green work
Our individual disciplines are robust. Our collective commitment to our clients, the environment and each other makes the work we do a lifestyle choice.
Connect with us.
To e-mail a team member use their first initial, followed by their last name. For example: b.green@ginkgosustainability.com
Connect with Christian our President at:
Christian Mahlstedt
Founder & President
B.A. (Hons), M.B.A., LEEDAP
BIO »
Christian is the brick the business was built on.
An early adopter of green infrastructure, the company he started, was and remains inspired by a vision to connect nature to buildings. His thoughtful leadership is rooted in finding ways to work with developers, construction companies and homeowners to make sustainability affordable.
He brings full-circle experience as he previously estimated, installed and managed green roofs. His grassroots beginnings have led to seats on several boards that advocate for the economic, social, and environmental benefits of living architecture.
Prior to his foray into business, for reasons unknown, he completed a degree in philosophy. After hours you may find him running an obstacle course or packing a bag ready to trek around the globe.
Carrie Power
General Director
B.Sc., M.Sc. in Environmental Practice
BIO »
As our starting quarterback she carries the team.
Carrie is an ambassador for the environment and a solution driven leader that makes room for everybody and brings a nothing is impossible mentality. She also brings 15 plus years of experience in management and business development in diverse industries. At GINKGO she heads up our day-to-day operations and is fully immersed in all the moving parts.
When she’s not running the office marathon, she’s considering running a city marathon. An adventurer who chases new experiences across the globe, she is drawn to water and all the sea creatures that call it home.
Jenny Moore
Director of Delivery
BSocSci (Hons)
BIO »
Jenny delivers.
She has spent the last decade with GINKGO in a pivotal operational role. Her extensive construction and project management skills make her a force of nature. A flare for transparent communication that delivers flawless green roof installations because she manages potential problems before we know there is one. The consideration of the smallest of details keeps our teams a step ahead. Responsible, decisive, and budget conscious she steers people and projects in the right direction.
Our rarely idle, natural planner is an adventurer with heart. She enjoys camping, music festivals, travelling, and playing sports in recreational centres across the city.
Donald D’haene
Lead Estimating Manager
BA Landscape Architecture
BIO »
Donald has a pulse on environmental solutions from a global perspective.
At GINKGO he mentors and trains the next generation of sustainable leaders. With over 20 years of experience, 300 green roofs installed globally, he brings invaluable knowledge to the team. Though he likes the nicheness of the industry he envisions a time that it is simply, the way it is. His motto is something green is something good.
Originally from Belgium, chocolate cravings are melted into his DNA. So is gathering his family in a mini trailer in search of mountains, water, and space. At home he lives off their land and cheers on his son at multiple sporting competitions.
Joel Ferguson
General Manager
GINKGO Air & Director of Innovation
BIO »
With Joel something exciting is always taking shape.
A veteran of innovation, he has spent years studying air pollution and the harmful effects it has on people. At our Research and Development Centre he designs with purpose and oversees manufacturing for the GINKGO Air line of products. He affectionately refers to the lab as his sandbox and his capacity to work with, and retain data is inspiring. His global vision is green houses on every continent to make the world a better place to breathe, belong and be in.
When he allows himself downtime he likes to cook, listen to jazz, but mostly he contemplates his next revolutionary solution.
Sasha Liston-Milnes
Project Manager & Estimator
M.Sc. Plant Science, B.A. International Development & Environmental Studies
Kymm Robson
Horticulturalist
Rob Edwards
Project Manager & Estimator
Bailey Wiebe
Technical Sales Manager
Greenspace Management Diploma
Vincent Wong
Project Manager & Estimator
BA of Design
Doug Wigmore
Senior Accountant
BA Economics, Certificates in Business Administration and Certified Accounting
Fai Hui
Operations Manager British Columbia
B.A. Economics & Philosophy, LLB
Monique Lee
Maintenance Manager
B.A., Dipl. Horticulture, CHT, ISA Cert. Arborist, Horticulture as Therapy+
Alfonso Rocca
Foreman
BA, EVS
Asma Bashirivand
Product Designer & Biophilic and Sustainability Consultant
MES, BA, WELL AP
Jordan Richie
Project Manager
BASc, GRP
Sandy Dos Santos
Living Walls Maintenance Supervisor & Estimator
Horticulture Technician Certificate, Diploma in Fashion
Joey Vilcius
Project Manager
B.A. Environmental Studies, GRP, VCE
Holly Horne
Landscape Architect, Project Manager & Estimator
OALA, CSLA, GRP
Caitlin Wilton
Green Walls and Grounds Maintenance Technician
B.A.
Napier Tremblay
Maintenance Supervisor & Estimator
BSc
Patrick Hare
Foreman
BA, B.Ed.
Sean Militello
Director of Technology
BMus, MA, MBA
Bill Corrigan
Business Development & Project Manager
B.A.
Michael Rocca
Foreman
EVS
Camila Johnson
Living Wall Maintenance Technician & Moss Art Installer
BA, Diploma in Landscape, Public Relations and Communications
Erika Schiller
Maintenance Supervisor
BSc Physics (Hons)