Who We Are
We are Viridis, a passionate team of technologists and innovators pioneering a new generation of water treatment technologies to unlock water circularity.
Founded in Vancouver in 2019, we are on a mission to tackle global water challenges by developing innovative solutions that eliminate organic pollutants from water sources.
At Viridis, we believe in a future where technological innovation, community engagement, and ethical business practices converge to address critical environmental challenges.
We're not just developing water treatment solutions – we're building a sustainable approach to global water security that empowers communities and protects our planet's most vital resource.
Our values act as our compass, shaping how we conduct ourselves in everything that we do.
They guide the people we hire, the partners we select, and the way we work together to further our mission and maximize our impact.
CEO AND CO-FOUNDER
Dr. Macarena Cataldo
With a PhD. in Chemical Engineering, Macarena has 15+ years experience in the application of electrochemistry to drinking and wastewater treatment using a multidisciplinary approach to tackling water quality issues.
"15 years ago, while volunteering as a science teacher for at-risk youth, I met a family living in my hometown of Valparaiso, Chile, who lacked access to water and proper sanitation. The stark reality of their situation shocked me, and I became acutely aware of the widespread global issue affecting millions of people.
This experience was a turning point that ignited my passion to dedicate my life to developing innovative water technologies. My experiences in water treatment (European Space Agency, Metropolitan Water Company of Turin and Res'eau WaterNet) have been instrumental in refining and honing the foundational ideas that now form the core principles of Viridis."
COO AND CO-FOUNDER
Ahmad Erfan
With over 15 years of expertise in the legal, retail, and technology sectors, Ahmad brings extensive experience in regulatory affairs, quality control, supply chain management, and go-to-market strategies.
"When I moved to Canada as a teenager, I was immediately struck by its wild beauty and abundance of natural assets. But my epiphany didn’t come until years later, when I took a sabbatical from work to travel to remote corners of the world with my wife and three young children.
I came back from that trip with a profound realization: nature is not a resource, but is intrinsically valuable in itself. And rather than seeking ways to exploit it in the name of human progress, we must aim to preserve and protect the natural environment for all forms of life, and for its own sake.
So it was only natural (pun intended!) that when I met Maca in early 2023 and learned about the company, I was immediately drawn in by her vision of ensuring the availability and sustainable management of water for all. I dived in head-first, and together with our team, we're building something truly special."
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Board Of Directors
Rochelle Grayson
A veteran digital strategist and founder of Mosaic Accelerator, Rochelle leverages global board experience to scale non-profits and industry associations. She is a dedicated champion for elevating women’s organizations worldwide.
Doug Wiggin
Doug is a seasoned technology executive and former CEO of Switch Materials and Axonwave Software, with deep expertise in operations, strategic planning, and product leadership across global markets.
Julia Elvidge
A founder and IP expert, Julia leverages her experience co-founding Chipworks to scale high-growth ventures. As Chair of SheBoot, she combines deep technical knowledge with corporate governance to drive strategic industry expansion.
Neil Branda
A world-renowned chemist and co-founder of the $75M 4D LABS, Neil transforms complex research into commercial technology. At SFU Innovates, he bridges the gap between scientific discovery and market-ready prototyping.
Technical Advisors
Ignacio Bermudez Corrales, PhD.
Expertise in AI, Machine Learning, and Data Science.
Samira Siahrostami, PhD.
Expertise in computational material design for advanced catalysis applications in electrolyzers, batteries, and fuel cells.
Diversity, Equity and Inclusion at Viridis
Our commitment to building a diverse and inclusive team is at the heart of everything we do.
It not only strengthens our company but also drives innovation and bolsters a culture of respect and collaboration. At Viridis, we foster an environment that promotes safety and allows each of us to bring our full selves to work, knowing that our contributions are valued.
The Founding Team
50%
Women
100%
Visible Minorities
The Core Team
Women
67%
83%
Visible Minorities
The Board
60%
Women
40%
Visible Minorities
Viridis In Numbers
Our Partner Ecosystem
Viridis partners with global brands, mills, research institutions, and funding partners to validate and scale breakthrough water treatment solutions across the textile value chain.
