According to Tyre Stewardship Australia (TSA), the foot of the EJ Whitten Bridge in Victoria has become a massive illegal dumping ground for tires, reflecting a statewide trend. Authorities attribute the surge in tire dumping to businesses avoiding recycling fees and rogue operators exploiting recycling schemes.

The Department of Transport and Planning has cleared approximately 2500 tires from beneath the bridge, with many remaining on the slope and some falling into the river. The Environment Protection Authority (EPA) is investigating. In Victoria, about 100,000 tons of waste tires are generated annually, with incidents of illegal dumping rising. Tyre Stewardship Australia reports that 1.8 million tires were improperly disposed of in Victoria in 2022-23, more than doubling over three years.

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Photo by Tyre Stewardship Australia.

Chief executive Lina Goodman said that “opportunistic operators” profit by collecting tires from retailers and mechanics, then dumping or stockpiling them. Dumping often occurs in remote areas, including state parks, posing environmental and fire hazards. Parks Victoria and the Conservation Regulator discovered over 60 illegal tire dumps on public land in the past year.

Dumped tires contain harmful chemicals that can leach into groundwater and pose a fire risk. Councils, such as the City of Brimbank and City of Wyndham, report significant tire dumping, with the latter collecting about 500 dumped tires monthly. Recent bans on exporting waste tires have contributed to rising recycling costs, potentially fueling illegal dumping. Authorities are taking action against offenders, including fines and prosecutions, emphasizing the need for responsible waste management.

To find out more, proceed to TSA's website.