Aim to Sustain statement on HSE Proposals on shotgun ammunition for live quarry shooting

As a coalition of organisations under the Aim to Sustain banner, we are committed to supporting a balanced and practical transition toward sustainable shooting practices. In response to the Health and Safety Executive’s (HSE) recommendations on lead ammunition, we reaffirm our dedication to advancing environmental sustainability while maintaining the viability of rural communities and the shooting sector.

These are the final recommendations from HSE – they are not yet law. The documents have been sent to the appropriate authorities (Defra, Scottish government, and Welsh government) who will assess the proposals. A period of 12 weeks is allowed to review the proposals, and either accept them in their entirety, or request more information from the HSE.

Supporting a managed transition

In 2020, our organisations proposed a voluntary transition away from lead shot and single use plastics in shotgun cartridges used by those taking live quarry, and since then, the sector has made considerable progress. We welcome the HSE’s recommendation to extend the timeline for restricting lead shotgun ammunition for live quarry shooting to five years. This extension provides necessary time for manufacturers, retailers, and the shooting community to further develop and adopt viable non-lead alternatives.

Advancing sustainable practices

Despite global supply chain challenges, ammunition manufacturers have already delivered a range of effective lead-free options. In parallel, our sustainable ammunition days have successfully introduced these alternatives to the shooting community, promoting education and readiness for change. Many game bird shoots have proactively transitioned to non-lead shotgun cartridges, with game from these shoots now available in supermarkets across the UK – a clear testament to the sector’s commitment to sustainability.

A balanced, evidence-based future

We believe that achieving a sustainable future for shooting requires legislation that is proportionate, practical, and rooted in scientific evidence. Our sector has demonstrated that voluntary self-regulation is effective in encouraging innovation and adaptation, paving the way for continued success in environmental stewardship.

As we engage further with Defra and government bodies, Aim to Sustain remains dedicated to ensuring that the final legislation supports a balanced approach.