Countries worldwide are shifting towards ending animal experimentation in scientific and medical research, but Australia risks falling behind in this global movement.
The move towards using alternatives like human cells, tissues, and data is fueling significant growth in new technologies and methods worth billions of dollars. However, concerns arise that Australia may miss out on these opportunities due to funding shortages, lack of transparency in record-keeping, and inconsistencies at the national level.
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An estimated 192 million animals are used for research globally each year, with efforts in Europe and North America to reduce this number. However, Australia’s stance on this issue remains unclear.
Unlike other countries, Australia lacks a central hub or dedicated funding for non-animal testing alternatives. There is also a lack of nationwide data on animal use despite recommendations from various inquiries over the years.
Bella Lear from Understanding Animal Research Oceania describes the situation as “insane” due to the unknown number and types of animals used for research in Australia.
Legislation in the US aims to reduce animal testing for drug development while the EU seeks to eliminate their use altogether. Canada and the UK have also taken steps towards phasing out animal testing.
We have no idea of the animal numbers at a national level in AustraliaDr Malcolm France
These initiatives are driving growth in non-animal technologies like organoids and organ-on-chip models based on human cells. The value of these models is projected to reach billions by 2040 according to CSIRO.
Animal-Free Science Advocacy opposes animal use in science and calls for better coordination nationally within Australia.
CEO Rachel Smith highlights the benefits of non-animal approaches citing scientific advancements, economic advantages, ethical considerations as well as public sentiment against causing harm to laboratory animals.<
Even proponents of animal research acknowledge that a more unified approach is needed along with comprehensive national statistics.
Lear points out that…
2024 -09 -28 15:00:14
Link from www.theguardian.com