The Environment Protection Authority (EPA) in South Australia is calling for heightened awareness around persons offering to provide discounted waste tyre transport services.

These offers could come in the form of a cold call to a commercial business offering to provide waste tyre transport services for a reduced fee or being contacted to provide storage facilities.

There is evidence that smaller businesses in the northern suburbs and regional areas are being contacted.

The EPA is concerned the tyres are being disposed of illegally.

The EPA’s Director of Compliance, Circular Economy and Investigations, Steven Sergi, said waste tyres pose a significant risk to the community if not transported and disposed of appropriately.

“We’re aware of several concerning incidents in relation to this matter,” he said.

“It’s a timely reminder that businesses must only engage an appropriately authorised waste transporter for the removal and disposal of waste tyres.

“An easy way to identify if the transporter is licensed by the EPA, is to look for the EPA-provided sticker, that should be displayed on the windscreen of an approved vehicle.

“If tyres are stored in large quantities, they can present a fire hazard as well as also harbouring disease carrying mosquitoes and vermin.”

Mr Sergi said from a circular economy perspective, it was important to support resource recovery and recycling of used tyres.

“Used tyres should be managed by an accredited retailer, recycler and collector to minimise the environmental, health and safety impacts of waste tyres.” he said.

Offenders face penalties of up to $120,000 for the illegal transport of waste tyres, with the illegal disposal of waste tyres carrying penalties of up to $250,000.

Further information on the correct way to undertake waste tyre transport and disposal can be obtained from the EPA website or by contacting the EPA directly.

Anyone who has encountered these individuals is encouraged to contact the EPA on 1800 623 445 or yourepa@sa.gov.au