UK Pledges to End Animal Testing by 2030 with Cutting-Edge Alternatives

On November 11, 2025, the UK government announced an ambitious plan to eliminate the use of animals in scientific research by 2030. This marks a significant shift away from the long-standing practice of using millions of creatures, including rats, birds, fish, and mice, to assess the safety of chemicals, medicines, and cosmetic products.

The latest figures show that 2.64 million animal tests were carried out in the UK last year, with 31% of these procedures causing moderate to severe pain and suffering. However, the government has now declared that animal testing should only ever be a "last resort," with a focus on developing and implementing validated alternatives.

The strategy, backed by £75 million in funding, will enable researchers to "pivot" to innovative technologies such as organ-on-a-chip systems, artificial intelligence, and 3D-printed tissues. These futuristic methods will allow scientists to test the effects of new drugs and substances on realistic human models without causing harm to animals.

The plan also includes specific timelines for phasing out certain types of animal testing, such as ending regulatory testing on animals for skin and eye irritation by the end of 2026, and reducing pharmacokinetic studies on dogs and non-human primates by 2030.

This move has been hailed by animal welfare campaigners as a "significant step forward" in ending the use of animals in science. The government has emphasized its commitment to finding alternatives that are both safe and effective, ensuring that the UK remains at the forefront of scientific innovation while prioritizing the well-being of all creatures.