TRACS (Tyre Recovery Activity Compliance Scheme) is asking members of the Meath public not to request waste tyres from tyre shops this Halloween. It is also asking retailers to ensure that their waste tyres are dealt with responsibly. Providing waste tyres to be used on bonfires is against tyre industry best practice, is illegal, and pollutes the air we breathe. It is also dangerous for those in close proximity to the fire and can cause cancer.

TRACS is also reminding tyre retailers, suppliers and distributors all around the county to also act responsibly this Halloween, by not giving out tyres and by making sure to recycle all used and end of life tyres through the correct waste channels, and through permitted waste collectors.

According to Fiacra Quinn, Director of TRACS, "The thinking in this area has changed considerably in recent years. Most people are now aware of the toxins and pollutants which release into the air when a waste tyre is burnt. Burning tyres is highly undesirable from both an environmental and health and safety perspective. We are asking people not to seek out tyres for bonfires this Halloween, as well as asking tyre retailers not to provide them to consumers if asked, and to secure the waste they have on-site."

TRACS, as Ireland's main Tyre Compliance Scheme, is monitoring the movement of waste tyres throughout the year and reports monthly to the Department of the Environment and the local authorities.

Ireland's most responsible importers, manufacturers, retailers and waste collectors are registered with TRACS. Members only give waste tyres to approved collectors and recognise that they still have a responsibility for their waste, even after it has been removed. Retailers, as holders of the waste, further recognise that they are responsible for ensuring its proper management. "Gone are the days when replacement fitters left a pile of waste beside the gate for any passerby to lift. Local authorities have prosecuted businesses for this", Mr Quinn said.

TRACS is fully committed to encouraging all those involved in the tyre supply chain to prioritise best practice in proper waste management, monitoring and assessment.

More information including a full list of TRACS' members as well as authorised and permitted waste collectors is available from www.tracs.ie or by calling Pat Kierans at TRACS on 01 4100601.