Drop in number of animals used in experiments
The number of animals used for scientific research is declining across Europe, according to a new study.
The European Commission has released its first report into the state of animal experimentation since the introduction of more stringent regulations seven years ago.
The study analyses the impact of the legislation, designed to reduce the use of animals in research and minimize their suffering.
Latest figures reveal 9.39 million animals were used for scientific purposes in 2017 – the most recent year for which data has been collected – compared with
9.59 million in 2015.
More than two-thirds of these animals were used in basic or applied research, while a quarter were involved in the testing of drugs and other chemicals. Other uses included the production of biological agents such as vaccines, as well as for teaching purposes and forensic investigations.
More than 60% of the animals used in 2017 were mice, 12% were rats, 13% were fish and 6% were birds. Dogs, cats and non-human primates made up 0.3% of the total.
The legislation promotes testing methods that cause the least pain.
As well as gathering data on the number and species of animals used in research, member states must now collect information on the number of times each animal is used, the purpose, and the severity of experimental procedures animals experience.
The European Commission said detailed data “allow us to identify far more effectively where best to target resources to help reduce the number and suffering of animals”.