Potter Mini-Symposium

A mini-symposium showcasing innovations in “green” biotechnology in current mining operations was held at UCT on the 23rd of November 2012. The conference was organised by two CeBER PhD students, Cindy-Jade Africa and Neehal Mooruth, both recipients of David and Elaine Doctoral Fellowship.

The symposium hosted talks by several high profile speakers from a diverse array of backgrounds in terms of expertise, as well as years of experience in their respective fields. Speakers included Prof Douglas Rawlings from Stellenbosch University, Prof Jillian Banfield from the University of California Berkeley and industry specialists Mr John Neal from Mintek, Dr Fanie Botha from Water Hunters and Mrs Nicky van Hille of The Moss Group.

The symposium was a tremendous success as it achieved its aims of raising awareness, sparking debate and invoking thought about the research conducted at CeBER and its fundamental importance to industry and the environment within a Southern African context. Furthermore, on a more humanistic level, it made the audience think about the responsibility they have, in industry and academia alike, to be ever mindful of the impact they make on society and to use their knowledge and positions to contribute positively.

For the full account of the day, please read the attached documents written and put together by organiser Cindy-Jade Africa.