Shooting sector champions nature recovery role

A new BASC report positions shooting as essential to delivering government environmental targets, with the sector already contributing over £1.1 billion annually in natural capital benefits.

‘Shooting and national nature recovery goals’ demonstrates that shooting directly supports four legally binding Environment Act targets and 18 specific government nature recovery objectives.

Sarah Pinnell, BASC’s head of land management, said: “As policymakers push forward with ambitious environmental goals, BASC is committed to ensuring shooting’s positive role in conservation is recognised and further developed. The shooting sector can continue driving the UK’s nature recovery efforts.”

The report highlights shooting’s unique role in incentivising conservation practices. Game shoots achieve 15% woodland coverage compared to England’s 10.5% average, while maintaining twice the hedgerow density of comparable land.

Shooting estates manage extensive peatland areas vital for carbon storage, contributing to government commitments to restore 240,000ha by 2050. Deer management through shooting proves crucial for woodland regeneration and emissions reduction.

BASC proposes enhanced collaboration between shooting organisations, government agencies and conservation bodies, plus stronger integration with environmental land management schemes to maximise conservation impact.

The findings position shooting as a cost-effective cornerstone of sustainable countryside management, delivering measurable environmental benefits while supporting rural communities.

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