ELECTRONIC Cemetery E-Waste Management has officially opened a state-of-the-art E-Waste facility in Hammarsdale, a development expected to set a new benchmark in sustainable waste management in South Africa.

The opening of the new facility began on a high note with a moving performance by children from the MAD (Make A Difference) organisation.

The facility, built on the USE-IT site, was funded by the EPR Waste Association of SA (EWASA). It is designed not only as a processing hub for electronic waste but also as a centre for innovation, collaboration and circular economy solutions.

The event was co-ordinated and hosted by Karen Rothwell of Infinite Insights, who was also the project manager of the entire build.

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The opening ceremony, held recently, was attended by industry leaders, government representatives, local authorities, traditional leadership, and international partners.

Among the keynote speakers was Catherine Wijnberg, founder of Fetola, alongside members of the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, eThekwini Municipality, and USE-IT.

“South Africa generates hundreds of thousands of tonnes of electronic waste each year, much of which contains hazardous materials that pollute air, soil and water. With e-waste being the fastest-growing waste stream globally, the facility is expected to play a vital role in addressing the environmental and health risks associated with discarded electronics.”

Beyond its core function, the Hammarsdale facility incorporates several innovative sustainable building methods. These include the use of Key Bricks, made with 70% recycled materials, solar energy systems that power the entire site, and a specially designed sustainable asphalt solution.

“This is more than a facility. It represents how collaboration, innovation and determination can drive meaningful solutions to one of the world’s most pressing environmental challenges,” said Jami Nash, co-founder of Electronic Cemetery.

Project growth

The organisation, which began as a small operation, has grown significantly in recent years and aims to use the new facility as a launchpad for further innovation. The company hopes to collaborate with industry experts, partners, and local stakeholders to continue developing progressive approaches to e-waste management.

With EWASA at the helm as the leading Producer Responsibility Organisation, this initiative is seen as an important example of how Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) can serve as a transformative driver for sustainability in South Africa.

The Hammarsdale facility is also expected to create new opportunities for job creation, skills development and environmental protection while raising awareness about the importance of responsible e-waste management

In support of MAD’s vital work, Refurb SA, powered by Electronic Cemetery E-Waste Management, donated 10 complete desktop computers to the organisation during the event. The donation aims to equip the children with access to technology and further opportunities for learning and growth.

Anyone wishing to schedule an e-waste collection can do so at www.electronic-cemetery.com.

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