Companies are often reluctant to disclose the extent of their involvement with animal testing. But a changing regulatory and risk backdrop, coupled with the growing advantages of alternatives, indicate that treating pharmaceutical animal testing only as an ethics-based issue is unsustainable.
Some 90% of drugs that pass preclinical tests ultimately fail, and the biological differences between animals and humans are known to be a contributing factor. The technological evolution in drug testing and alternatives, which can deliver more accurate and efficient results, creates opportunities to switch, to the benefit of society and animals.
Many alternatives are more efficient, cost-effective, accurate, and relevant to human biology than animal-based research. These advantages are crucial, as alternatives must compete with, and outperform animal-based research to gain confidence and support from industry and regulators.
EOS has historically engaged on animal welfare with companies in the agriculture and animal health industries. We have also collaborated with the FAIRR investor network on various initiatives relating to livestock production. Based on recent changes in policy surrounding pharmaceutical animal testing and the growing risks and alternatives opportunities, we have scaled up our engagement with companies in the pharmaceutical and medical device sectors to protect and enhance shareholder value and drive progress towards the alternatives transition.
Effective governance and management of pharmaceutical animal testing and preparing for a transition to alternatives are critical for the protection and creation of long-term shareholder value. Companies that welcome the integration of alternatives into their research programmes, and make investments to support the transition, will be well placed to take market share in an animal testing-free future.
Read the full article in our Q2 2024 Public Engagement Report.
Is the end in sight for animal testing?
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