Chemicals

ABOUT THE ISSUE

Millions of animals will be used under the EU system for Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemical substances (REACH). Over 30,000 existing chemicals as well as new ones, will need to be tested, often requiring many animals, for their effects on human health and the environment.
Under the legislation all information on the testing on animals will need to be submitted by the companies to the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) during registration. Companies may be required to perform testing on animals where it has not yet been performed.

WHAT IS THE CURRENT SITUATION

Under Regulation (EC) No 1907/2006, companies are obliged to share the data resulting from tests on animals, to ensure there is no duplication of animal testing.
Due to the work of Eurogroup, the promotion of alternative test methods is essential. The European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) must submit a report to the Commission every 3 years on the implementation of non-animal test methods.

WHAT ARE WE CALLING FOR

• Proper application of the mandatory sharing by companies of animal test data
• The use of alternative test methods and the funding of the development and validation of alternative methods
• Evaluation of testing proposals involving animals, through the guidance documents, to minimise their use