Government plans to consider phasing out the use of lead ammunition have been welcomed by wildlife organisations.
Research by the Wildfowl and Wetlands Trust shows that between 50,000 and 100,000 wildfowl die in the UK annually after ingesting lead from used pellets which they mistake for food. A further 200,000 to 400,000 birds suffer health impacts as the pellets are highly toxic.
Environment Minister Rebecca Pow confirmed the department is looking into the volume of lead ammunition discharged into the countryside, causing harm to nature and wildlife.
“Addressing the impacts of lead ammunition will mark a significant step forward in helping to protect wildlife, people and the environment,” announced Environment Minister Rebecca Pow.
Now the Government has requested an official review of the evidence, with a public consultation in due course and is considering a ban under the UK’s new chemical regulation system – UK REACH.
Wildfowl and Wetlands Trust (WWT) ecosystem health and social dimensions manager Dr Julia Newth, said conservationists, shooting organisations and game meat retailers recognise the toxic risks from lead ammunition.
“Regulation of its use in all shooting, wherever this may happen, is very much needed as soon as possible, to protect human and animal health and to enable us to move towards a greener and safer future,” said Dr Newth.
Studies have found that lead ammunition can enter the food chain, posing a risk to people if they eat contaminated game birds. Lead poisoning also causes wild birds to spread diseases such as Avian Influenza (bird flu) by lowering their immune systems.
LSL News.