reportLood2024_3 July 2024.pdf

Fishing with lead tackle is not advised due to the significant environmental and health risks it poses. Lead is a toxic metal that can leach into water bodies, contaminating aquatic ecosystems and harming wildlife. Birds, particularly waterfowl, often ingest lead sinkers and jigs, mistaking them for food or grit, which leads to lead poisoning and often death. This not only disrupts the balance of local ecosystems but also poses a threat to human health, as lead can bioaccumulate in the food chain. Switching to non-lead alternatives such as iron or stone tackle is a simple yet effective way to mitigate these risks. These materials are safer for both the environment and wildlife, ensuring that fishing remains a sustainable and responsible recreational activity. By choosing non-lead tackle, anglers can help protect our natural resources and contribute to a healthier planet. As the BUAS research concluded, promote lead free anglers as caretakers for nature. Countries like Denmark who have a total ban on lead show that they are thriving and living in an environment without the harmful effects of toxic lead. Also in Canada and America bans on use in nature parks and wildlife refuges show and are important to create environments where animals can be unbothered in their natural habitat.

In countries like the Netherlands and Belgium a start with a ban in Natura 2000-gebieden for lead tackle would be a good beginning although a national ban is more effective and more clear. As we can see from the perspective of different countries everyone has a similar mindset in protecting and defending wildlife and preserving nature. We have to understand that

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29 with fishing and hunting it is not safe for animals and humans to be exposed to lead. In the 90s the United States stopped using lead shot to kill waterfowl. The ECHA and European Union already followed. The common Loon is an endangered bird in the United States and Canada. States like New York, Maryland and Massachusetts seek to protect this species by putting a ban on lead products. England has banned small weights because of lead poisoning of swans. Most of the world has phased out lead in paint, solder and PVC. So, the question is why would we continue to use lead in fishing when we can see that this material is already an area of high concern?

Toxic lead removed from Oahu waters of Hawaii (Oahu, 2018) I have created this document to show the major concern for using the product and urge those who read it to reduce their consumption and use of the product. In conclusion, because people will not stop using lead on their own use of lead has to be regulated. Years of warning and information for people did not make a difference. Follow the examples in England and Denmark with a nationwide ban on the use of lead. Of course with enforcement of this ban. Other solutions like iron or stone are very possible and do not require further exploration. Let’s use alternatives for lead and be more mindful and take care of the planet we live in.

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30 9. LITERATURE -

Adventure, www.advnture.com/news/lead-weights-ban-plan (2020) America, https://www.doi.gov/sites/default/files/documents/2024-01/jan2024america-beautiful-2023-annual-report508-1.pdf (2023) Angling,www.angling-international.com/2024/05/07/lead-fishing-ban-lifted-on-usfederal-waters/ (2024) Angling Trust, https://anglingtrust.net/ (2024) ATSDR, Substance Priority List, https://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/SPL/ (2024) Bird Life, www.birdlife.org/ (2024) Bird Watch, www.dof.dk/en/aboutus#:~:text=Founded%20in%201906%2C%20DOF%20BirdLife,bird%20data%20coll ection%20and%20protection (2024) BLM, www.blm.gov (2024) BUAS, Human and Nature united, The case of lead use in Dutch Angling Sport, Business Inspiration Report, Manou Basemans, Breda Univesity of Applied Sciences (2020) Canada, www.canada.ca/en/environment-climate-change/corporate/internationalaffairs/partnerships-countries-regions/north-america/canada-united-statesprotecting-migratory-birds.html (2022) Catalunya,https://parcsnaturals.gencat.cat/web/.content/Xarxa-deparcs/cap_de_creus/gaudeix-parc/consells/normes-nav-fondeig/pesca-recreativaen.pdf (2015) CBD 1, Legal Petition Aims to Phase Out Toxic Lead Ammo, Fishing Tackle on National Wildlife Refuges (biologicaldiversity.org) (2022) CBD 2, https://www.biologicaldiversity.org/programs/environmental_health/pdfs/NWR-NonToxic-Ammo-tackle%20petition-CBD-2022-06-08.pdf (2022)

CVMA,www.canadianveterinarians.net/policy-and-outreach/positionstatements/statements/use-of-lead-fishing-tackle-and-lead-shot-in-canada/ (2021) Deltares, Emissie van lood naar de Nederlandse zoete en zoute wateren door verlies van vislood in de sportvisserij, Janneke Klein, Jos Vink (2013) DEFRA,www.gov.uk/freshwater-rod-fishing-rules/tackle-you-canuse#:~:text=You%20can%20only%20use%20lead,the%20containers%20are%20spil l%20proof (2024) DEFRA, www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2015/815/pdfs/uksiem_20150815_en.pdf (2015) Denmark 1, www.global-regulation.com/translation/denmark/609996/executiveorder-banning-the-import-and-sale-of-products-containing-lead.html (2024) Denmark 2, www.fiskeristyrelsen.dk/lyst-og-fritidsfiskeri (2024) Denmark 3, www.fiskeristyrelsen.dk/lyst-og-fritidsfiskeri/beskyttede-omraader (2024) Denmark 4, https://fisketegn.dk/ (2024) Denmark 5, https://mst.dk/erhverv/groen-produktion-ogaffald/industri/miljoetilsynet/regler-og-vejledning/miljoetilsynskampagner (2024) DWHC, www.dwhc.nl/ (2024)

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31 -

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IDEAE, www.idaea.csic.es/newspost/terrestrial-birds-in-spain-and-europe-affectedby-lead-poisoning/ (2024) Italy, petition, https://chng.it/SjcQnX7J (2024) ECHA 1, www.echa.europa.eu/nl/web/guest/hot-topics/lead-in-shot-bullets-andfishing-weights (2024) ECHA 2, www.echa.europa.eu/documents/10162/6368366/101019_call_for_evidence_ lead_webinar_en.pdf/810f4590-31ae-a3f3-55ad-0bcba16ae001?t=1571208732571 EPA 1, www.epa.gov/environmental-topics/water-topics (2024) EPA 2, www.epa.gov/assessing-and-managing-chemicals-under-tsca /tsca-section21-petition-requesting-epa-regulate-lead-0 (2024) EPA 3, www.epa.gov/ground-water-and-drinking-water/basic-information-about-leaddrinking-water#getinto (2024) Greendeal, GD222-dealtekst-Sportvisserij-Loodvrij.pdf (greendeals.nl) (2018) Fishstone, www.fishstone.de/lead-free-fishing/?lang=en (2024) Franson et al, https://bioone.org/journals/waterbirds/volume-26/issue-3/15244695_2003_026_0345_LFWAOF_2.0.CO_2/Lead-Fishing-Weights-and-OtherFishing-Tackle-in-Selected-Waterbirds/10.1675/15244695(2003)026[0345:LFWAOF]2.0.CO;2.short, Waterbirds, 26(3):345-352 (2003) FWS, www.fws.gov/about/mission-and-vision (2024) Idaho, www.idahoahec.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Fishing-and-Lead.pdf (20221) Main Audubon, Maine loon project, www.maineaudubon.org/wpcontent/uploads/2017/05/REPORT-Effects-of-Lead-Fishing-Tackle-on-Loons-inMaine.pdf (2013) NP,

https://www.nationalparks.uk/faqs/ (2024) Lake, https://www.lakedistrict.gov.uk/visiting/things-to-do/water/fishing (2024) Oahu, www.oceandefenders.org/news-and-media/toxic-lead-fishing-weightsremoved-from-oahu-waters.html (2018) Obama, www.biologicaldiversity.org/news/press_releases/2017/lead-01-232017.php, 2017 Onasch Joy, Getting the Lead out of Massachusetts Fishing One Sinker at a Time, https://www.turi.org/content/download/11652/185527/file/Getting+the+Lead+Out.pdf (2007) NAS, www.ca.audubon.org/news/while-federal-ban-lead-ammo-gone-dangers-birdsand-people-will-persist (2022) National Library of Medicine, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6675838/ (2024) with example on ducks: www.jstor.org/stable/4070529?seq=1 Obama, www.biologicaldiversity.org/news/press_releases/2017/lead-01-232017.php (2017) Science, www.science.org/doi/10.1126/science.abj3068 (2022) WSB, Ellis, M and Miller C.A., Wildlife Society Bulletin, 4 June 2023, www.wildlife.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/wsb.1449 (2023) Slabe, V.A. et al, Science, 17 Feb 2022, Vo 375, pp 779-782 SGW, www.stichtinggezondwater.nl (2024)

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Siera Club, https://www.sierraclub.org/press-releases/2023/08/lawsuit-targetsharmful-lead-ammunition-national-wildlife-refuge-system (2023) SFDA, www.fishingzealand.dk/fishing-zealand-en/fishing-zealand/ (2024) SOVON, www.sovon.nl/ (2024) State of Washington, Fish and Wildlife Issues Related to the Use of Lead Fishing Gear, Pat Michael (2006) VCF, https://4vultures.org/ (2024) Vogelbescherming, www.vogelbescherming.nl/actueel/bericht/nieuwe-wet-redtvogels-van-loodvergiftiging (2023) WHO, www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/lead-poisoning-and-health (2023) WUR, Droge S.T.J., Roessink I. et al, Mogelijke risico’s van vislood in het aquatische milieu (2023) WWT,www.wwt.org.uk/news-and-stories/blog/add-your-voice-to-ban-lead-inammunition/ (2022) Yellowstone, www.theguardian.com/environment/2019/apr/16/pioneering-goldeneagle-found-poisoned-in-yellowstone (2019)

MOMENTS TO LEARN. THANKS TO HZ VLISSINGEN From everything stated we can learn from other countries and adapt their principles when we can see them moving towards a brighter future. I truly believe that by using the principles of lead safety and minimizing our contact with the toxic substance will greatly impact our lives and help the environment. We mustn’t think we live on this earth alone and understand our bond with nature and animals. I would also like to thank the HZ in Vlissingen for teaching me about Permaculture and learning how to preserve nature in its entirety. This practice is simply not interfering with the natural course of nature and leaving the earth where it is. Years ago before buildings and a commercial way of life people lived in forests and the whole world was very green. Now we pollute the earth, make waste and trash and kill animals and hurt the ecosystem. This is bad for many reasons. Without our connection to nature we lose a bit of ourselves and forget about a simpler time in life where nature could be where it is. I suggest we all take the time to appreciate nature, respect each other and respect the animals for the earth is their home as well. Vlissingen, 2 July 2024 Nicholas Hauptmann

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33 APPENDIX 1. Presentation at Europe Direct in The Haque at 17 June 2024

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35 2. Summary of supporting views restriction proposal ECHA. In June 2019, ECHA started the restriction proposal for lead fishing weights. The restriction proposal was open for views from March 24, 2021 to September 24, 2021. 319 views have been submitted on the proposal. On November 30, 2022, the advisory committees of ECHA, RAC and SEAC supported the restriction proposal with their opinions. Decision-making in the European Commission was originally scheduled for the spring of 2023, this has been postponed to spring 2024 and still, June 2024, no decision-making has been made. According to those involved at Europe Direct, with whom discussions were held on June 17, 2024, the file has not yet been completed. The consultation of the Member States has not yet taken place. When decision-making will take place remains unknown. The question now is whether 2025 is feasible. Personal responses: Person from Finland states that white Eagles die unnecessarily due to fishing sinkers (3182) and refers to publication; Lead poisoning and other human-related factors cause significant mortality in white-tailed eagles | Ambio (springer.com) Person from the Netherlands points out health risks for people in stores who have hand contact with unpacked lead. (3196) Person from Poland points out options to prevent lead loss.

(3218) Person from England points out (research into) poisoning of birds of prey by lead, resulting in serious population reduction. (3241) Person from Germany requests ban on small lead weights and metal casing for heavier weights, and ban on light longguns for lead (3260) A veterinarian from England is calling for a ban on lead because of the risk of lead to birds of prey, humans and other species and the availability of alternatives. (366) Person from Belgium believes a direct ban on the sale and use of lead in hunting and fishing is necessary. (3274) Person from Italy says enough is enough, ban lead from the environment. (3289) A person from Italy fully supports the need for a lead ban. (3370) An Italian veterinarian warns of the long-term effects on humans and calls for a ban on lead. (3371) An Italian scientist (University of Sassari) calls for a ban on lead because of the risks to birds of prey and humans. (3373) 35

36 A person from Italy is calling for a ban on lead due to its toxicity. A scientist from England is calling for replacement of lead with alternatives through a ban due to its toxicity to animals and humans. (3375) A person from Italy is calling for a ban on lead. (3376) An Italian scientist is calling for a ban on lead because of its harm to Gyps vulgus, a reintroduced species, and other wildlife. (3377) A person from Austria indicates that the entire staff of the German Shooting Sport and Archery Federation has been using lead-free ammunition for more than 10 years and the staff of the Austrian National Parks for 15-20 years. This person fishes lead-free in the Danube and wonders why others don't. (3381) A person from Italy says it's time to stop pollution and calls for a ban on lead. (3383) A person from Italy indicates that lead should have been eliminated long ago. (3384) A person from Italy indicates that lead is dangerous for the environment and people. (3385) A person from Italy indicates the less the better and therefore requests a faster ban. (3386) A person from Cyprus indicates that reuse, which reduces emissions, has not been taken into account. (3394) A professor from Italy is confronted with lead-poisoned birds every day and supports the ban on lead.

(3395) Person from Italy indicates that he has been waiting for a ban on (fishing) lead for a long time to support biodiversity. (3345) Person from the Netherlands requests that the ban on use and sale take effect immediately after the EC decision. And not to let the interests of 3 international and 10 local fishing sink companies (which employ only 100 people) outweigh the health of millions of people, birds and the environment.(3278) Person from the Netherlands requests that the ban on use and sale take effect immediately after the EC decision. And not to let the interests of 3 international and 10 local fishing sink companies (which employ only 100 people) outweigh the health of people, birds and the environment.(3279) A person from England warns about the risks of lead poisoning in livestock. (3392) An Italian researcher and ornithologist welcomes any initiative to prevent lead emissions and is therefore in favor of a complete ban. (3397)

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37 A person from Italy indicates that a ban cannot come quickly enough and calls for ignoring the pressure from lead trade and producers.(3404) An Italian ornithologist frequently sees the consequences of lead for Gypaetus barbatus, Aquila chrysaetos and other birds of prey An Italian researcher indicates that the data on the effects of lead on animals, humans and nature should lead to a quick ban on lead. (3485) A Finnish pathologist/veterinarian details the concentrations and numbers of leadpoisoned birds he encounters in his work; swans and eagles Cygnus cygnus, mute swan C. olor) and eagles (golden eagle Aquila chrysaetos, white-tailed eagle Haliaeetus albicilla). Time for a ban on lead.(3486) An Englishman indicates that it is really time to stop the use of lead. He calls for a quick ban, partly because of lead in brown bears. (3508) An Italian scientist points to the lead poisoning of birds of prey and scavengers such as vultures, the top predators.

Stelvio national Park collaborates with: Provincial Police Sondrio Province, IZSLER Lombardia ed Emilia-Romagna, 5 Hunting Alpine Unit Management of Sondrio, ERSAF –Parco Nazionale dello Stelvio, ISPRA, Fondazione Cariplo, Veterinary University of Milan, Lombardy Region, Gran Paradiso NP, Valle d'Aosta Region Hunting Service, IZS Piemonte, Liguria e Valle d'Aosta, Ente Aree protette dell'Ossola, Val Grande NP, Bolzano-Como-Brescia-Lecco-Bergamo Provinces Hunting Service, Guardie Ecologiche Valle Camonica, Altura (NGO), Gruppo Aquile Appennino Settentrionale (NGO);LPO/BirdLife France, ASTERS CEN, Vautors en Baronnies, Parc Naturel Régional des Ecrins, VetAgro Sup – Campus Vétérinaire Lyon, Réseau Casseur d'os PNA Gypaète barbu/Pyrénées, Parc Naturel Règionel Grands Causses, Parc national du Mercantour, Université de Montpellier and LPO Mission Rapaces Midi Pyrénées. International Bearded vulture Monitoring, Vogelwarte (Switzerland), Max Planck Institute (Germany), Vulture Conservation Foundation, Richard Faust Zentrum and Hohe Tauern National Park, Wien Veterinary University (Austria) and Guadalentin Breeding Center (Spain).

Because successful experiments with lead alternatives have been carried out in Colli Euganei Regional Park (Padua), Parco Regionale di Frasassi e Gola della Rosa (Ancona) and Tenuta Presidenziale Castel Porziano (Rome, see the Proceedings of Cesena Symposium) in Italy and Haute Savoy (Life Gyp-Help) in France, Hohe Tauern National Park in Austria, and the area next to Berchtesgaden National Park in Germany, calls for a swift lead ban.(3511) Organizations: Finnish Wildlife Agency welcomes the increasing use of non-lead ammunition. (3237) An organization in Spain points to a publication about the occurrence of lead in birds.(3243) Österreichisaches Kuratorium für Fischerei und Gewässerschutz calls for an immediate ban on the use of heavy fishing leads. (3358) 37

38 The European Association of Zoo and Wildlife Veterinarians wonders why lead polluters do not have to pay for the pollution they cause. (3359) BirdLife Sweden strongly advocates a ban on lead. (3361) Federation of Veterinarians of Europe (FVE) calls for a complete ban on lead due to the risks to birds of prey, humans and other organisms and the availability of alternatives. This One Health problem can be effectively addressed by a ban. (3369) An organization from Estonia advocates much shorter transition times because of the toxicity of lead to birds and humans and because of the availability of alternatives to lead. (3372) ANSES, a French organization, advocates a ban on lead because of the health damage caused by lead to children aged 0 to 17 years. (3378) German Shooting Sport and Archery Federation endorses the risks of lead and advocates the collection and reuse of lead. (3379) RSPB Northern Ireland is calling for greater supervision of the use of lead due to the risks to animals and humans. RSPB is calling for a full ban on lead because partial bans have proven ineffective. (3388) The Healthy Water Foundation indicates that due to unfamiliarity with the proposal, the views are not evenly distributed among relevant organizations. SGW advises to give more publicity to follow-up proposals so that there is better representation of the field in the responses.

(3393) Appennino Lucano Val d'Agri Lagonegrese National Park indicates that poisoning of birds and nature due to the use of lead occurs frequently and is therefore in favor of a complete ban on the use of lead. (3396) ANP|WWF from Portugal indicates that it wants a ban on lead as soon as possible because of the poisoning of birds of prey, health risks for people and the environment and the EC's Zero pollution agenda. (3405) RSPCA from England warns of the danger of lead exposure. (3406) International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), Species survival commission, Wildlife Health Specialist Group-Europe from Switzerland warns about the consequences of lead and wants a quick ban on lead. (3412) European Association of Zoo and Veterinarians calls for an immediate ban on the use of lead and also wants polluters to pay for the damage they cause with the use of lead. SGW proposes a fee on fishing licenses and the sale of lead weights during the transition period. The proceeds from this can be used to stimulate the production of alternatives to fishing lead. (3206)

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39 Modified Materials is calling for a ban on fishing lead, partly because of the emission of lead smoke when DIY casting lead weights. Modified Materials indicates that it knows an alternative to DIY fishing lead casting. Deutscher Angelfischerverband e.V. indicates to 500,000 fishermen that lead must be removed from the water and warns of possible damage to the water system from alternatives to fishing lead. (3219) Jagdgebrauchshundverband from Germany wants that because of it. toxicity of lead shot with tin. (3231) Face UK, a hunting association, recommends further research into lead substitutes. (3236) Bayerischer Jagdverband e.V. supports the idea of minimizing lead. (3248) Lead Ammunition Group, English group of academics, NGOs, and individuals with expertise in toxicology and human health (including REACH processes), animal welfare, wildlife health, veterinary medicine, environmental policy, deer management and all aspects of shooting. The LAG warns and advises the government for the dangers of lead, grazing cattle and birds. LAG Reports highlight the negative impacts to other (nonruminant) livestock and domestic animals, besides impacts to grazing cats, goats and sheep. LAG states that the proposed transition periods are much too generous and should be shorter. Wildfowl & Wetlands Trust, an international UK knowledge organization, fully supports the lead ban.

(3303) JCP Ammunition ApS states that since the ban on rifle ammunition in California, the condor population is increasing again. (3306) Royal Society for the Protection of Birds confirms the risks of lead and recommends using alternatives. (3307) The Finnish Federation for Recreational Fishing believes birds should be protected from lead and children should not be exposed to lead (fumes). (3344) Associazione CERM Centro Rapaci Minacciati advocates an immediate and complete ban on lead due to lead poisoning of birds of prey. (3365) EFTTA agrees with ECHA's proposal but requests an exemption for the leads, 0.06 grams (split shots size 6 to 14) and requests that the lead content be increased to 4% for copper alloys instead of 1%. (3259) Swedish Museum of Natural History refers to a study on lead present in ospreys and wants a ban on the use of (fish) lead. (3348)

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40 Tour du Valat from France indicates that the use of lead is not sustainable and should therefore be stopped as soon as possible, due to damage to birds, people and nature. (3409) Flanders Marine Institute states that there are many suitable environmentally friendly alternatives to fishing leads and warns against the introduction of non-environmentally friendly alternatives. VLIZ points out the presence of lead in organisms such as crab and mussels. (3217) Namibian Chamber of Environment (NCE) indicates that the 5,000 European hunters who come to hunt in Namibia every year should do so without lead. (3414) Ornithological Group and Museo Natural Sciences of Bergamo "Enrico Caffi"/Gruppo Ornitologico Bergamasco - Museo di Scienze Naturali di Bergamo "Enrico Caffi" recommends and advocates lead replacements to stop lead poisoning in birds of prey. (3418) Dutch Water Authorities - Union of Water Boards supports the ban and warns against replacement by other SVHC. Alternatives to fishing sinkers should be used and promoted. (3423) In Italy, Rete Stop al Piombo sulle Alpi is a petition “No more Lead for Hunting. Stop Intoxicating Raptors in the Alps!” which had 12,500 signatories in just a few months. Want a ban on lead as soon as possible.

(3424) https://chng.it/SjcQnX7J Supporting organizations: LIPU LOMBARDIA Lega Italiana Protezione Uccelli, WWF ITALIA, WWF LOMBARDIA, GUARDIE WWF ITALIA Nucleo Lombardia, LEGAMBIENTE LOMBARDIA, LEGAMBIENTE ITALIA, CAI VALTELLINA Club Alpino Italiano, CAI TAM. Club Alpino Italiano Tutela Ambiente Montano, CAI LOMBARDIA. Club Alpino Italiano, MUSEO CIVICO DI STORIA NATURALE DI MORBEGNOÂ, APAS Associazione Produttori Apistici Sondrio AIGAE, Associazione Italiana Guide Ambientali Escursionistiche, CRAS RIMINI Centro recupero Animali Selvatici, PIACENZA WILDLIFE RESCUE CENTER, CENTRO FAUNISTICO PARCO ADAMELLO Cras Paspardo (Bres cia), LONTANO VERDE, Gestore Cras Paspardo (Brescia), PAVEES SOC. COOP., Gestore della Riserva Naturale Regionale del Lago di Cornino, CA.DIME ALTURA, Associazione per la tutela degli uccelli rapaci e dei loro ambienti, GOB Gruppo Ornitologico Bergamasco, GIO Gruppo Insubrico di Ornitologia GOL Gruppo Ornitologico Lombardo, NAHR.

Nature Art & Habitat Residency ANIMOT Pensiero critico sull'animalità, MUSEO CIVICO di Scienze Naturali E.CAFFI di Bergamo, EBN ITALIA Euro Bird Net, CERM Centro Rapaci Minacciati, CIPRA ITALIA Commissione Internazionale per la Protezione delle Alpi, CISO Centro Italiano Studi Ornitologic, MedRaptorS Mediterranean Raptor Migration Network , ARDEA Ricerca Divulgazione Educazione Ambientale, FFF Friday For Future di Bergamo, Pavia, Gorizia, Valle D'Aosta, Pinerolo, As.Fa.Ve. Associazione Faunisti Veneti, M.A.N. Associazione Mediterranea per la Natura, FICEDULA Associazione per lo studio e la conservazione degli uccelli della Svizzera Italiana, VOGELWARTE Swiss Ornithological Institute Sempach, LPO AURA Ligue pour la Protection des Oiseaux (Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes)

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41 VCF Vulture Conservation Foundation, IBM International Bearded Vulture Monitoring network, BIRDLIFE SWITZERLAND, LBV Landesbund Vogelschutz Latvian Ornithological Society advocates and bans lead due to poisoning of birds of prey, because lead is poisonous to humans and because there are Latvian alternatives. If it can be done in Denmark, it can be done anywhere in Europe! (3427) The English Ulster Wildlife wants a quick ban on lead in bullets and fishing weights because it poisons animals and is harmful to people and the environment. (3428) Association BIOM from Croatia points to multi-year trials with alternatives and calls for a quick ban on lead due to lead poisoning from Gyps fulvus. (3438) The Dutch Vulture Conservation Foundation indicates that voluntary measures for lead control are not working and therefore calls for a quick ban with enforcement due to the poisoning of birds, humans and the environment by lead and fish lead. (3443) EAZA (European Association of Zoos and Aquariums) indicates that there is no safe exposure for lead and is therefore calling for a quick ban on its use. EAZA believes that continued use and spread of lead in the environment creates a serious One Health problem that can be effectively solved with a ban and replacement with non-toxic alternatives.

(3444) The Italian WWF - CRAS WWF di Valpredina is calling for a quick ban on lead because it will stop the poisoning of birds of prey by lead, which will reduce the costs for WFF that cares for poisoned birds. (3450) Swiss Ornithological Institute indicates that there is ammunition without lead, which means that no birds of prey will suffer lead poisoning. (3451) The French European Wildlife Disease Association indicates that it has little data on lead poisoning but supports the lead ban. (3454) Eurogroup for Animals points out the benefits of and supports a ban on lead. (3455) In Parco Nazionale dello Stelvio in Italy, tests were carried out with alternative ammunition to protect large birds of prey from lead poisoning. (3458) Born Free Foundation from England strongly supports the ban on lead because of the effects on animals, humans and the environment and because there are sufficient alternatives. (3461) Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species CMS indicates that lead poisons many birds and also damages human health and nature, which is why CMS is committed to the use of alternatives and a rapid ban on the use of lead. (3473) The Hellenic Ornithological Society/BirdLife Greece states that there is no threshold value for lead, so any exposure is too much for humans, the environment and animals. A total

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42 ban on all lead is therefore strongly supported. Especially given the EU's zero pollution agenda. (3475) The German CMS - Raptors MoU Coordinating Unit indicates that a ban on lead protects the populations of migratory birds of prey from lead poisoning and is therefore in favor of a quick ban on lead. (3477) The German Agreement on the Conservation of African-Eurasian Migratory Waterbirds (AEWA) calls for a swift ban on the use of all lead in view of lead poisoning.(3478) Given the impact of lead on birds and waterfowl in particular, the Spanish Sociedad Española de Ornitología (SEO/BirdLife) is in favor of a ban on fishing leads and lead ammunition. Also considering the risks for humans, SEO is in favor of a quick ban. (3479) BirdLife Estonia is aware of the harm of lead to wildlife, its harm to human health and its compliance with the EU Action Plan: "Towards a Zero Pollution for Air, Water and Soil", and the availability of alternatives to a total ban such as in Denmark where it has been in force for 25 years. (3480) The South African Lead Task Team is calling for a ban to prevent hunters from shooting with lead in South Africa. For fishing lead, South Africa is asking for a license to produce fishing lead replacements more cheaply in South Africa. (3482) WWF Finland & BirdLife strongly supports the ban on lead ammunition and fishing leads.

(3483) The Northern Ireland Marine Task Force says there is evidence that lead is causing unacceptable damage to birds, the environment and human health. That is why the MTF asks the EC to speed up the ban and introduce it as quickly as possible. (3484) VsI Pilietines Technologijos from Lithuania have conducted a survey on their own consultative platform (www.Polltix.co) about the lead ban. 57 municipalities participated in the survey, of the 934 respondents, 68 were in favor of the ban and 28% were against. Age is a parameter for/against, the lower the age, the greater the percentage in favor of the ban. Men are more likely to be against it than women. (3487) An academic institute in England has conducted a study into the absorption of lead (from bullets and fishing weights) in mammals. How lead absorption takes place via the food chain requires further research, the absorption is there. (3489) Vautours and Baronnies from France report that of every dead bird of prey (Griffon, Egyptian, Cinereous and Bearded vulture) they examine, 50% have high lead levels in the bones, liver and kidneys. (3491) Fiiish SARL from France points to the home casting of lead fishing weights and that this will increase. FS wonders who should monitor the ban. (3492)

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43 Inland Norway University of Applied Sciences reports blood levels > 96 micrograms per liter, 8 times higher than the EFTA threshold in brown bears. (3493) The European Environmental Bureau from Belgium advocates a ban because there are affordable and suitable alternatives. The ban stops the poisoning of people during home watering, prevents brain damage in 1 million children, prevents millions of poisoned animals and prevents contamination of water, soil and vegetation by/with lead. (3494) BirdLife South Africa calls for a swift ban on lead due to the consequences for animals, nature and humans. This ban can be an example for other countries. (3496) BirdLife Malta is in favor of a quick ban due to the risks for animals, nature and humans. (3497) Euronatur, an organization for 19 countries from Germany, is in favor of a rapid ban on lead due to the poisoning of birds of prey, the damage to human health and the achievement of the EC “Zero Pollution agenda”, any further delay of a ban is contrary to the Birds and Habitat Directives (Council Directive 92/43/EEC, Directive 2009/147/EC), the costs of lead use (SFS, wildlife-based tourism), and the presence and availability of alternatives. If it can be done in Denmark, it can also be done in the other EC countries. (3498) BirdWatch Ireland is in favor of a ban because it encourages the use, production and trade of alternatives.

The consequences for the birds are known. (3499) The successful ban on the use of lead ammunition in the cantons of Valais and Grisons has the Swiss "Jagd Schweiz" and the Swiss Conference of Hunting and Fishing Administrators calling for a swift ban on lead. The precious reintroduction of vultures to the Alps is being harmed by the use of lead, with 8 of the 16 species of Old World vultures critically endangered. 24% of dead vultures examined have extraordinary lead concentrations. Stiftung Pro Bartgeier. (3500) An organization from Portugal warns about lead emissions, the danger of exposure and the contamination of the environment. (3502) European Fishing Tackle Trade Association ASBL supports a ban on fishing leads and says both sales and use should be controlled. The EFTTA is in favor of a direct ban on lead unloading systems (drop-off) but asks for an exception for small leads (up to 0.06 grams), an increase in the lead percentage in lures from 1 to 4% and a transition time of 5 instead. 3 years after Eif from the EC ban. (3503) GIFAP, an organization from France, indicates that lead producer LeMer, among other things, indicates that a less strong breaking line means that only the hook of a fishing line remains in the water. According to LeMer, this means that of the 100 tons of lead sold, only 10 tons remain a potential risk. (3504)

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44 The Wirtschaftskammer Österreich discusses the danger of exposure, emissions to the environment, the transition time, the alternatives and the request for an exception. This chamber advocates a quick ban on lead. (3505) An English scientist and signatory of the letter drawn up by 75 scientists from 18 countries discusses the risks of lead for humans, the environment and animals. As in two previous letters, the request is made to the ECHA to quickly introduce a ban on lead. (3506) The Finnish Association for Nature Conservation calls for swift restrictions on the use of lead in hunting and fishing. Finland has banned hunting waterfowl with lead since 1996. (3507) In its letter to the ECHA, the American Global Wildlife Toxicology Interest Group - Society of Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry (SETAC) refers, among other things, to bioaccumulation and therefore calls for a rapid ban on lead in ammunition and fishing gear. (3508) The Dutch BirdLife Europe and Central Asia highlights the risk of exposure, environmental pollution, bioaccumulation, the presence of alternatives and the financial benefits of a ban, and calls for a swift ban on lead. (3510) The Norwegian Association of Hunters and Anglers (NJFF) indicates that there are serious numbers of home casters for fishing leads and, given the risks, advocates a ban on home casting.

(3512) The WWT from England points to an upcoming publication of an article on the costs of lead poisoning of birds and therefore proposes a quick ban. (3513) The English Northern Ireland Environment Link is imposing a ban on lead as soon as possible due to the unacceptable negative effects on wildlife, the environment and humans. The need for good enforcement is also endorsed. (3515) The Spanish European Raptor Biomonitoring Facility investigates lead levels in birds of prey in 21 European countries. The risks of lead for birds of prey, nature and humans are thus quantified. The ERBF therefore advocates a quick ban on lead. (3517) Member States: Member state Belgium is asking for a ban on fishing leads much faster than proposed, member state Belgium wants the ban on the use of fishing leads to come into effect as soon as possible. Research by the ILVO (Institute for Agricultural, Fisheries and Food Research shows that lead is present in mussels, starfish, crabs and flatfish (Platichthys foutus). (3228) Member state Denmark, which has had a ban on sales and imports since 2001, advocates extension to all lead in fisheries such as nets and lines and states that the lead content of 1% is far too high, 0.01% is easily accessible and BAT . (3253)

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45 Member state Slovakia advocates information about the health risks of casting fishing lead at home. (3349) Member state Cyprus is calling for a complete ban due to the danger to wild organisms, the risks to human health and the availability of alternatives. (3364) Member state Germany warns about lead present in so-called lead-free products. (3363) Member state Norway is calling for a ban on lead in ammunition and fishing. This ban will create more alternatives and reduce the burden on animals and the environment. (3474)

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