An SNP MSP has backed the efforts of the UK’s largest shooting organisation to make game shooting more sustainable.
Jim Fairlie, the newly elected MSP for Perthshire South and Kinross-shire, has come out in support of the Dunkeld-based British Association for Shooting and Conservation (BASC) who are helping shooters move away from using lead shot and single-use plastics in shotgun ammunition.
BASC have been hosting dedicated sustainable ammunition events at clay pigeon shooting grounds across Scotland to showcase the virtues and effectiveness of sustainable ammunition.
Last year nine of the UK’s largest shooting and rural organisations – including BASC – committed to a voluntary transition away from lead shot and single-use plastics in game shooting by 2025.
The announcement was made on the back of increasing concerns about the impact of lead shot to the health of humans and wildlife, and a growth in research and development towards sustainable alternatives.
During a visit to a BASC event in Perthshire this week, Mr Fairlie described sustainable ammunition as ‘the future’ and encouraged game shooting enthusiasts to make the transition ‘without delay’.
“I fully support BASC’s efforts to drive the transition towards sustainable shotgun ammunition for game shooting”, he said.
“Ending the use of lead shot and single-use plastics will do much to make the sector more sustainable, and will effectively break down the barriers that are currently prohibiting the consumption of game meat on a wider scale.”
During the visit Mr Fairlie took the opportunity to try a selection of sustainable cartridges – which were comprised of steel shot and biodegradable materials – for himself.
BASC’s public affairs manager in Scotland, Ross Ewing, said: “We are delighted that Jim is supporting our progressive transition away from lead shot and single-use plastics in shotgun ammunition.
“The sustainable ammunition market is growing and the cartridges themselves are proving effective. It has been great to hear the positive feedback from BASC members at our events this week.
“As a respected member of the farming community, Jim’s support for a smooth transition away from lead shot and single use plastic is invaluable. We urge others to follow his example and give sustainable ammunition a try.”
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