The Ministry of Environment warns that burning tires, an Easter tradition, releases toxic chemicals in the air, which can damage the respiratory system and even cause cancer, Info-Prim Neo reports. A press release of the Ministry informs that carbon monoxide damages brain cells and hydrocarbons affect the respiratory system, causing asthma, bronchitis and the exacerbation of chronic diseases or pulmonary intoxication. Phenol derivates damage liver functions and can aggravate illnesses of the gastrointestinal tract. Burning tires also releases carcinogenic substances. One tonne of burnt tires releases 270 kg of black smoke and 450 kg of toxic gases, which can spread over an area of 160 km. The Ministry of Environment warns that unauthorized burning of tires is fined with 20-40 penalty units or community service for natural persons. For legal persons, the fine may rise to 300 penalty units. Parties involving tire-burning is a widespread tradition around Easter in many Moldovan villages, in particular among the youth.