Congratulating UHI North, West and Hebrides Researchers on Award-winning Work to End Use of Lead Ammunition

That the Parliament congratulates Dr Mark Taggart and his team at the Environmental Research Institute (ERI) at UHI North, West and Hebrides, in Thurso, on their contribution to the Lead Ammunition Collective, which has been awarded the 2026 RSPB Medal for its work to end the use of lead ammunition; recognises Dr Taggart’s leading role in the ERI’s research and his individual contribution to the wider campaign, including efforts that helped secure progress towards an EU-wide ban on lead gunshot; acknowledges what it views as the vital contribution of ERI colleagues to the research carried out; welcomes the phased restrictions on the sale and use of most lead ammunition in Scotland, England and Wales, alongside the European Parliament’s vote to allow an EU-wide restriction on lead gunshot to proceed; understands that lead poisoning poses a serious threat to wildlife and the wider environment, and celebrates the international impact of research carried out at UHI North, West and Hebrides, demonstrating the important role of local researchers and institutions in informing environmental policy and delivering change.