The problem and promise of e-waste: Is your cell phone a gold mine?

Environmental and mineral law consultant Aysha Lotter will present a talk on the future of electronic waste and mineral stewardship at the Franschhoek Theatre on Wednesday, June 25, at 6.30pm.

In her talk, "The Problem and Promise of E-waste: Is your Cellphone a Gold Mine?", Ms Lotter will reveal how our discarded devices hold more than sentimental value – they may literally be worth their weight in gold.

She will unpack why South Africa finds itself at a crossroads: on the one hand facing mounting environmental pressure from growing e-waste, and on the other, holding vast potential to lead the continent in sustainable mineral recovery and circular economy innovation.

The lecture forms part of the ongoing SmallTalX® series hosted at the Franschhoek Theatre, which brings cutting-edge ideas and vital knowledge to the local public in an accessible and engaging format.

Ms Lotter will highlight why e-waste isn't just a recycling problem — it’s a powerful lens through which we must rethink our relationship with technology and natural resources.

The talk will explore how discarded electronics represent both an ecological risk and a valuable resource in the Anthropocene era, offering practical insights on how individuals, communities, and policymakers can shift to more sustainable practices.

Aysha Lotter is an environmental and mineral law consultant and researcher with a particular focus on Extended Producer Responsibility and integrated waste governance in Africa. She is currently completing an interdisciplinary PhD in private law and chemical engineering at the University of Cape Town, where her work focuses on developing a circular metals economy.

She has contributed to national e-waste policy and norms and standards through her work with the Sustainable Recycling Industries (SRI) Initiative, supported by the World Resources Forum and the Swiss Federal Laboratories for Material Science and Technology.

Ms Lotter also lectures environmental and mineral law at UCT and serves as project manager for the Waste to Value Community of Practice across three South African universities, funded by the National Research Foundation.

Her talk is expected to resonate with anyone interested in sustainability, innovation,environmental justice, and the future of materials use in South Africa.

Tickets are R250 and include a glass of wine, snacks, and an audience Q&A session with the speaker.

Bookings are essential and can be made online at www.franschhoektheatre.co.za. For more information, contact Leila Shirley on 073 421 8879 or emailsmalltalx.info@gmail.com