European Parliament approves ban on lead shot in hunting and fishing

The European Parliament has approved a ban on the use of lead shot in hunting, outdoor target shooting, and fishing in wetlands. The measure aims to prevent the dispersal of more than 44,000 tonnes of lead into the environment annually, a persistent form of chemical pollution that causes severe neurotoxic effects in wildlife, particularly aquatic birds like ducks, geese, and swans.

The ban specifically targets shot ammunition rather than solid metal bullets or slugs. It follows previous restrictions on lead in fishing equipment and the removal of lead from gasoline and water pipes. To allow for industry and hunter adaptation, the Parliament has granted a seven-year transition period, after which only non-toxic alternatives such as steel or bismuth must be used.

The decision passed with 362 votes in favor and 292 against, reflecting a political divide within the Parliament. While environmental groups celebrated the move as a victory for ecosystem health, some political groups, including the European Conservatives and Reformists (ECR), opposed the measure due to concerns regarding the economic costs and the availability of substitute materials.