From Abdullahi Alhassan, Kaduna
Environmental experts have raised concerns over the increasing practice of burning used tyres by children and youths in several northern Nigerian communities to extract metal wires for sale.
Findings from a survey conducted by the Head of Communication and Strategies at African Climate Reporters, Comrade Ibrahima Yakubu, indicate that the activity has become a source of livelihood for some young people operating around informal waste disposal sites.
According to Yakubu, the youths set discarded tyres on fire to recover steel cables and wires, which are then sold in local markets for income. Some of the recovered materials are reportedly purchased by traders and households for domestic use.
Speaking during the survey, some of the youths admitted they were unaware of the health and environmental dangers associated with the practice. One of them, who requested anonymity, pledged to stop burning tyres after learning about the harmful effects of the smoke on both human health and the environment.
Scientists working with African Climate Reporters warned that tyre burning releases dangerous pollutants and fine particulate matter into the atmosphere. These pollutants can penetrate deep into the lungs and pose serious health risks to both those involved in the activity and residents of nearby communities.
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Yakubu explained that vulnerable groups, including children, pregnant women, nursing mothers, the elderly, asthmatics, and people with weakened immune systems, are particularly at risk. He noted that prolonged exposure to fine particulate matter has been linked to respiratory illnesses, aggravated asthma, and cardiovascular diseases.
Experts further stressed that tyres are not designed for combustion. They contain hazardous substances such as benzene-derived oils, styrene, and 1,3-butadiene, chemicals associated with severe health complications and suspected cancer risks.
Yakubu, who is also a science and environmental lecturer at the African Institute of Waste Management and Environmental Studies, warned that toxins released from burnt tyres can accumulate in the environment and contribute to long-term health challenges.
He called on government agencies, civil society organisations, community leaders, and parents to intensify awareness campaigns and closely monitor children’s activities to discourage the practice and protect public health.