Turning e-waste into opportunity for youth employment and sustainability in Cape Town

An innovative clean-up drive in Cape Town’s Southern Suburbs has turned electronic waste into an opportunity for youth employment and environmental sustainability.

The event was hosted by E‑waste Recycling Authority (ERA), a non-profit that’s been tackling South Africa’s e-waste problem since 2018. The organisation held an impactful e-waste dismantling initiative in July, with community members, businesses, and partners getting involved in hands-on recycling at two dismantling centres – National Economic Empowerment for the Disabled (NEED) in Bridgetown and E-waste Buddies in Pinelands.

Participants helped dismantle old electronics – from phones to kettles – highlighting the urgent need to divert e-waste from overflowing landfills. Beyond raising awareness, the initiative aims to empower youth by training them in the circular economy, where materials are reused instead of dumped. These skills are key to unlocking green job opportunities in a sector with major potential, said ERA CEO Ashley du Plooy.

Mr du Plooy said the project speaks to both the environmental and unemployment crises facing the country. “E-waste is growing faster than we can manage, and our youth are still struggling to find work. But where others see a crisis, we see potential,” he said.

Although the event coincided with Mandela Day on Friday, July 18, volunteers used their 67 minutes to dismantle electronics and contribute to sustainable change – a practical tribute to Madiba’s legacy, said Mr du Plooy.

The public can get involved by visiting their website www.eranpc.co.za