S.C. Waste Tire Management at a Crossroads

 

South Carolina’s waste tire management program has been a success story from its beginning in fiscal year (FY) 1994 (July 1, 1993 to June 30, 1994) – with counties recovering nearly 110 million tires from current generation and stockpiles of illegally dumped or stored tires across the state. The end-of-life management of waste tires was addressed with the passage of the S.C. Solid Waste Policy and Management Act (Act) of 1991 (Section 44-96-170).

Why the special attention? If improperly managed, waste tires (also known as scrap tires) pose a potential threat to human health, safety and the environment. Nearly 30 years later, issues have emerged that threaten the program.

SC and Waste Tires

South Carolinians generate an estimated 5.1 million waste tires every year - about 14,000 per day. If improperly managed, waste tires (also known as scrap tires) pose a potential risk to human health and the environment. If recycled, waste tires can be made into many products or used as an alternative fuel source.

The S.C. Solid Waste Policy and Management Act of 1991 (Act) prompted the first efforts to manage waste tires in the state. The Act:

• Prohibits the disposal of whole tires in landfills;
• Places a $2 fee on the purchase of new tires to provide funding for the proper management and recycling of tires; and 
• Requires county governments to manage waste tires generated within the county with collection and enforcement programs.

Stockpiles of illegally dumped or stored tires collect rainwater and provide a breeding ground for mosquitoes that transmit illnesses. These piles also are a fire hazard. Tire fires - which are extremely difficult to extinguish - release toxic air pollutants and generate oil that can contaminate the ground and surface water. DHEC along with PalmettoPride and the S.C. Department of Natural Resources developed a campaign to encourage residents to report any illegal dumping of tires in their communities. For more information, visit See It, Report It. 

Where Can Residents Recycle Tires?

Tires must be recycled. It’s the law. It’s also easy and convenient for residents. For more information visit Where Can Residents Recycle Tires? 

Where Can Businesses Recycle Tires?

Tires must be recycled. It’s the law. Businesses may check with their county recycling program to see what options are available. In addition, businesses needing to recycle tires can contact:

• A waste tire hauler registered in South Carolina
• A waste tire processing facility permitted in South Carolina

Scrap Tire Sustainability Plan

DHEC supports county programs with technical assistance and grant funding to ensure that waste tire generators of scrap tires (i.e., residents, retailers and auto salvage yards) have free access to drop-off locations.

The overall framework has been successful. South Carolina, however, like virtually all states, still faces recurring issues (e.g., markets) on the management of scrap tires. To address these issues, DHEC, along with a statewide stakeholder group, developed the Scrap Tire Sustainability Plan.