Lithuania to Ban Lead Shot for Hunters and Shooters Under New EU Rules

Lithuania is set to implement a ban on lead shot for hunting and sport shooting, aligning with new European Union regulations designed to curb environmental and health risks associated with lead pollution.

The new provisions prohibit carrying and firing lead pellets during hunting or at sport shooting ranges. The ban specifically targets pellets with a lead concentration of at least 1% by mass, excluding lead bullets and single-piece slugs for smoothbore shotguns. However, an exemption is provided for active members of sport shooting federations, allowing them to use 1.9–2.6 mm lead pellets in outdoor ranges equipped with established risk management measures.

Suppliers will be prohibited from selling most lead shot, with the exempted types available only for sport shooting in compliant ranges. These ranges must install at least two pellet containment systems, such as walls, berms, nets, or special surface coatings. Used pellets must be collected at least every three years, and upon the cessation of range operations, specific pH levels and other risk management requirements must be met.

The European Commission regulation, developed over more than a year, is based on the significant environmental and health impact of lead. A European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) report indicates that approximately 44,000 tons of lead are released into the environment annually from sport shooting, hunting, and fishing in the EU, with sport shooting accounting for 57% and hunting for 32%.

Lithuania initially supported the goal of reducing lead pollution but opposed the proposed regulation due to the current geopolitical situation and potential impacts on national defense strengthening. The country argued that restrictions on lead ammunition could negatively affect defense training, particularly exercises involving drone targets, which are being prioritized amid current security concerns. While the regulation includes an exemption for military and defense purposes, Lithuania expressed concerns that the proposed restrictions could still affect ammunition manufacturers, disrupt production, and limit civil resistance and general defense capabilities. The potential negative impact on outdoor shooting ranges and their number was also a consideration in formulating Lithuania's position.