PHASING OUT THE USE OF LEAD SHOT FOR HUNTING IN WETLANDS

This document summarises a 2007/2008 AEWA Secretariat survey of hunting organisations and authorities in Range States that have phased out lead shot for hunting in wetlands. It describes how pellets are ingested by waterbirds and cause poisoning, and notes AEWA Action Plan obligations and Resolution 4.1 measures. It outlines progress through statutory bans, legislation in preparation, and voluntary efforts. Drawing on country experiences, it offers a four-step roadmap: analyse conditions; choose an approach (immediate ban, transition period, voluntary measures, or a stakeholder working group); set realistic timelines; and support implementation via awareness, hunter training, non-toxic shot availability, enforcement, and monitoring.