The Environmental and Health Impacts of Illegal Dumping

Improperly disposed waste tires create unique threats to the health of Arkansans and the environment.

Yellow fever mosquitos, which can transmit the Zika virus, are “container breeders,” and find water in waste tires the perfect breeding ground. While only travel-related cases have been reported in Arkansas, tire dumping could contribute to the local spread of the virus.

Tires have immense impact on the environment, specifically when burned. Tire fires are notoriously complex to extinguish and release carcinogens into the air and soil. One passenger tire can release up to two gallons of oil and other toxins into the ground.

– Stacy Ford, Regional Recycling