A Pawsitively Bright Future: UK's Plan to Phase Out Animal Experiments

Tue Nov 11 2025 15:41:43 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

In a groundbreaking move, the UK government unveils its strategy to dramatically reduce and eventually eliminate animal testing in science and medicine, employing innovative technologies and human-based methods.

The UK government is set to phase out animal testing, following a new plan that aims to begin replacing them with alternatives by the end of this year. The ambitious strategy involves a 35% reduction in the use of dogs and primates by 2030 and pushes for new testing methods using human cells and AI. While the government recognizes the challenges ahead, experts are hopeful for a future with fewer animal tests, although some warn against rushing the transition.

The government has detailed for the first time how it aims to fulfil its manifesto pledge to work toward phasing out animal testing.

The new plans include replacing animal testing for some major safety tests by the end of this year and cutting the use of dogs and non-human primates in tests for human medicines by at least 35% by 2030.

The Labour Party said in its manifesto that it would partner with scientists, industry, and civil society as we work towards the phasing out of animal testing.

Science Minister Lord Vallance told BBC News that he could imagine a day where the use of animals in science was almost completely phased out but acknowledged that it would take time.

Animal experiments in the UK peaked at 4.14 million in 2015, but fell to 2.88 million by 2020. However, since then that decline has plateaued.

Lord Vallance emphasized the importance of driving alternative approaches, such as animal tissue cultivated from stem cells, AI, and computer simulations.

As part of the new strategy, the government plans to set up a Centre for the Validation of Alternative Methods to ensure the reliability of new non-animal testing approaches.

The RSPCA has positively received this plan, calling it a significant step forward, yet has urged the government to deliver on its promises.

While many celebrate this move towards a kinder future, some scientists warn that rushing to alternatives too soon could harm research quality and hinder medical advancements.