First programme on alternatives to animal testing
The European Partnership on Alternative Approaches to Animal Testing (EPAA) has announced details of its first action programme, to refine, reduce and replace animal use in regulatory testing. The 'Three Rs' proposed by William Russell in the 1959 paper 'The Principles of Humane Experimental Technique' form the basis of moves away from animal tests and to alternatives. The new work programme lists 21 areas to explore over the coming five years, from best practice to regulation to validating alternatives. In a joint statement, co-chairs Georgette Lalis from the European Commission and Colin Humphris, Executive Director of the European Council of Chemical Industry Federations (CEFIC), representing European industry said: 'The European Commission and European industry have both achieved much in recent years to refine, reduce and replace the need for animals in safety testing, but society rightly demands that we all increase our efforts. The adoption of this ambitious action programme clearly shows our commitment to pool resources and to work together to drive research forward in this crucial area. The refinement, reduction and replacement of animal testing is the goal of all members of the partnership, and we hope that the publication of this programme will encourage others to work with us.' The 21 areas are divided into five themes: - evaluating regulations for animal use; - mapping past and present '3R' activities; - prioritise and begin '3R' research; - validate new test methods; - identify and implement '3R' best practice. The group's first annual report will be issued in December 2006
Countries
Belgium