The Sussex Ornithological Society fully supports the coalition between the WWT, RSPB, Wild Justice, Wildlife and Countryside Link and CHEM Trust for call for an immediate and comprehensive ban on lead ammunition.

Each year, an estimated 7,000 tonnes of toxic lead shot is dispersed into the environment, equivalent to the weight of the Eiffel Tower. This persistent pollutant poisons wildlife, contaminates soil, and disrupts ecosystems, leaving a devastating legacy for generations.

In the UK, up to 100,000 waterbirds die annually due to lead poisoning from ammunition. As a society dedicated to the protection of birds and their habitats, we are deeply concerned about the ongoing impact of lead on wetland species and the broader environment. This is a preventable crisis, yet it has continued unchecked for decades.

We now have a crucial opportunity to change this. The Health and Safety Executive has delivered clear recommendations for restricting lead ammunition, and these proposals are currently under consideration by Environment Secretary Steve Reed. We urge him to act swiftly and decisively to implement a full ban and end this needless harm to wildlife.

Lead has been removed from petrol, paint, and pipes, yet it remains a major source of contamination in the environment through ammunition. As the last significant cause of lead poisoning for wildlife, it is time to consign lead shot to history.

The Sussex Ornithological Society stands firmly with all partners in advocating for this vital step toward protecting our birds, wetlands, and ecosystems.

Please add your name to the campaign https://act.wwt.org.uk/page/160992/action/1?ea.tracking.id=enp#BANLEAD

Photo by Alison Playle.