The transition to non-lead sporting ammunition and fishingweights: Review of progress and barriers to implementation

摘要

This review presents evidence of lead exposureand toxicity to wildlife and humans from spent shotgunand rifle ammunition and fishing weights, and the barriersand bridges to completing the transition to non-leadproducts. Despite the international availability of effectivenon-lead substitutes, and that more jurisdictions areadopting suitable policies and regulations, a broadertransition to non-lead alternatives is prevented becauseresolution remains divided among disparate human userconstituencies. Progress has occurred only whereevidence is most compelling or where a responsiblepublic authority with statutory powers has managed tochange mindsets in the wider public interest. Argumentsopposing lead bans are shown to lack validity. Differingnational regulations impede progress, requiring analysis toachieve better regulation. Evidence that lead bans havereduced wildlife exposure should be used more topromote sustainable hunting and fishing. Evidence ofthe lead contribution from hunted game to humanexposure should shape policy and regulation to end leadammunition use. The Special Issue presents evidence thata transition to non-lead products is both warranted andfeasible.