David specializes in the integration of sustainable environmental and socio-economic imperatives into the mining industry. David studied a BSc in Chemical Engineering and specialized with a MPhil in Sustainable Mineral Development, both degrees obtained from the University of Cape Town. His academic research focussed on the social and health impacts of Mine Dust as well as the transparency and effectiveness of sustainability reports published by South African gold mining companies. David remains committed to ensuring that mining activities deliver on their sustainability imperatives to ensure shared benefit for all stakeholders, especially the most marginalized.

Dr. Kotsiopoulos is the Deputy Director of CeBER. His research focuses on developing innovative and economically viable products from underutilised resources, which emphasises fundamental design principles and practical industrial applications, backed by techno-economic feasibility studies. This work enhances engineering knowledge and supports growth in the bioprocessing industry. His diverse research spans environmental challenges, including addressing acid mine drainage through reactive barriers and the repurposing of mine waste. He conducts in-depth cost-benefit analyses, touching on environmental and socioeconomic aspects, aligned with life cycle assessment. His research offers practical solutions for sustainable growth and environmental stewardship in South Africa.

I am a Mining Engineer by profession specializing in the Economic Diversification of Mines and Post-mining Economy. This has led to this trans-disciplinary research into the field of decarbonization for mines by developing plant-based carbon-neutral fuels, on or near mine sites using locally produced intermediate inputs farmed by Community Farmers. This leads elegantly into the arena of Just Transition as the economic benefit accrues to a great extent to mine doorstep and impacted Communities.