European Union tightens regulations on lead ammunition

The European Union is implementing stricter legislation regarding the use of lead in ammunition, driven by environmental and animal protection concerns. Following the conclusion of the legislative process in the European Parliament on October 8, the new rules are set to take effect 20 days after their publication in the Official Journal of the European Union.

Key modifications made during the consultation process include extending the transition period from three to seven years. The ban specifically targets lead shot; however, lead bullets used in rifle ammunition for hunting larger game are excluded from the new regulations. This exclusion was maintained by the European Commission to ensure production and supply capacity are preserved amidst shifting security and defense requirements in Europe.

The regulation will prohibit the sale of hunting shot containing 1% or more lead after the seven-year transition period. This new legislation replaces previous rules, such as the 2023 ban on lead shot use in and around wetlands, by establishing a general ban on their use.