Swindon Science Cafe - Cobalt Rush screening and discussion

COBALT RUSH - screening and discussion with filmmaker , Professor of Natural Resources and Development at the University of Bath

‘Cobalt Rush is an award-winning 20-minute documentary which powerfully tells the story of cobalt extraction from the perspective of artisanal miners in the Democratic Republic of Congo. The film follows the lives of three workers in the mines in Lualaba Province, exposing the extreme poverty, health concerns and exploitation they face. As the global demand for cobalt - an essential element in batteries for electric vehicles and consumer electronics- continues to grow, the perilous and abusive working conditions for these miners are widely unknown in the supply chain.

Cobalt Rush won two national honours at the Learning on Screen Awards 2023 in London: Best Educational Film Award and the prestigious ‘Premier Award’, at a ceremony at the British Film Institute.

The screening will be followed by a discussion with the filmmaker, Professor Roy Maconachie, on the balance and tensions between environmental, social and economic development.

SWINDON SCIENCE CAFE

Science Cafes are an informal opportunity to explore the latest ideas in science and technology. Rather than a long lecture, you can expect a lively, two-way conversation with a researcher - over a drink or two!

Everyone is welcome to come and express their views or just enjoy a drink and listen. No scientific knowledge is needed to take part - just bring your curiosity, and maybe your own bottle of choice.

A selection of light refreshments will be available in return for a donation on the night, or you are welcome to bring your own drinks and snacks with you.

WHEN: The first Tuesday of each month, from 7pm - 9pm.

The screening will start around 7.15pm, followed by questions and discussion.

WHERE: Innovation Centre for Applied Sustainable Technologies (iCAST) Creative Hub located in the iconic Carriage Works. 10 Carriage Works, Unit 7B, London Street, Swindon, SN1 5FB

Enter the following three words into the What Three Words app to find the exact location:

Front entrance: ///friday.index.solo

Rear entrance: ///cups.shell.face

The Festival of Tomorrow

The Royal Agriculture University

Swindon and Wiltshire Institute of Technology

The University of Bath Innovation Centre for Applied Sustainable Technologies (iCAST)

Host or Publisher Festival of Tomorrow 2021