On International Laboratory Animal Day on April 24, the German Animal Welfare Federation calls for massive support for research that does not rely on animal testing and for the phasing out of such experiments. This could put an end to the suffering and death of millions of animals each year that are used in experiments or killed as so-called surplus animals. In the laboratories of the future, visionary researchers are already developing technologies that deliver more precise results than animal testing—as shown in the new film “Future Science,” which provides a decisive impetus.
“Animal testing is not only inefficient and expensive, but often fails to yield results that are transferable and relevant to humans,” says Thomas Schröder, President of the German Animal Welfare Federation. In accordance with the constitutional goal of animal welfare enshrined in the German Basic Law, it is crucial to initiate the long-overdue phase-out of animal testing. “Politicians must finally take action: The reduction strategy for animal testing, which was developed under the traffic-light coalition, is ready—it is time for the current federal government to implement it.”
Most recently, 1,327,931 animals were used for scientific experiments in Germany. In addition, 626,538 animals were killed to harvest their organs or tissues for research purposes. 1,109,100 so-called surplus animals were bred for scientific purposes but then killed because they had no further use. Although the numbers have declined slightly in recent years, the situation remains alarming and requires action at the societal, scientific, and legislative levels.
FAREWELL TO ANIMAL TESTING: FILM HIGHLIGHTS INNOVATIVE ALTERNATIVES
The feature film “Future Science” explores one of the most profound upheavals in modern science and illustrates what the science of the future might look like. Thanks to innovative technologies such as multi-organ chips, 3D bioprinting, and artificial intelligence, diseases and medications can be researched using human models. These methods are more precise and safer than animal testing, and are also ethically sound. The film also sheds light on the power structures behind the existing animal testing system and calls for a change in thinking. “Future Science” celebrates its German premiere on April 25 and will be shown in select theaters. More information at futuresciencefilm.de
Note to editors: In its “Guide to Animal-Free Science,” the German Animal Welfare Federation highlights the diversity and possibilities of animal-free methods. You can download the “Guide to Animal-Free Science” here.
