Bauchi: The Bauchi State Environmental Protection Agency (BASEPA) has announced a ban on the use of tyres for burning hides and skin during the Eid-el-Kabir celebrations. Dr. Mahmud Bose, the Director-General of BASEPA, emphasized that this decision aims to protect public health and the environment.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Dr. Bose highlighted the severe health hazards and environmental degradation resulting from the use of tyres in this practice. He pointed out that burning animal skin with tyres releases toxic fumes containing harmful chemicals, such as dioxin and furan, which endanger respiratory health and ecological systems.
Dr. Bose stated, “We are committed to protecting the lives of the people and the integrity of the environment. Using tyres to process animal skin is a dangerous practice that must be stopped.” He explained that the ban is part of a broader initiative to promote sustainable environmental habits during cultural and religious festivities.
The agency has engaged with stakeholders and community leaders to address this issue within society. Environmental health workers have been deployed to communities to promote compliance and safe practices. These teams are responsible for educating residents on proper methods for meat processing and the safe disposal of animal excretions to maintain hygienic surroundings during and after the celebrations.
Dr. Bose urged the residents of Bauchi State to support the agency’s efforts, adopt safer alternatives, and avoid littering, underscoring that environmental cleanliness is a shared responsibility. He reiterated BASEPA’s commitment to enforcing environmental regulations and supporting community awareness initiatives during the festive period.