ANNUAL REVIEW 2022 17
Our science teams
All our work for animals is based on the best, most up-to-date
scientific research, knowledge, expertise and experience. That means we're recognised
and respected as a worldwide authority on animal welfare, and can lead the way on
reforms to laws and behaviour that make millions of animals' lives better. Each year,
our science experts bring individuals, communities, legislators and organisations
together to find ways to do just that.
Our top 2022 achievements for animals in science
❚ We released a new animated
RSPCA video explaining how a
phase-out of the use of animals
in experiments could be achieved
❚ We conducted a public opinion
poll, which confirmed that
77 percent of UK adults agree
the phase-out should happen
❚ We held conferences in the UK
and Sweden on reducing and
avoiding severe suffering in
research - also an online event
with a European umbrella
organisation for pharmaceutical
companies, exploring what they
can do
❚ We trained local animal ethics
committee members to help
them challenge whether and how
animals are used and to help
ensure humane alternatives
are used
❚ We provided training and talks
on creating a culture of care
for scientists, vets and care staff
in the UK, Finland, Sweden,
Germany and France
❚ We ran events on better welfare
for animals used in research, such
as fish and rodents
Working together for animals in science
Our two major ambitions for laboratory animals by 2030 are:
❚ a worldwide commitment to replace animal experiments with humane alternatives
❚ an end to 'severe' suffering experienced by animals in research.
Where animals are used in laboratories, we also want to improve their welfare.
A world without animal experiments
- it can be done
Phasing out animal experiments is not an impossible
dream. With commitment, leadership and global
collaboration, these experiments really could become
a thing of the past. As our video explains, there is
increasing awareness of the scientific limitations of
many animal experiments, quite apart from the harm
caused to the animals.
Despite progress on humane alternatives that don't use
animals at all, it's taking too long to develop more and
for scientists to accept those that do exist.
We're working with everyone who can play a part and
we're calling for the UK Government to take the lead
with a clear plan to phase out animal experiments.
Watch our video at: rspca.org.uk/phasingout