3Rs/Alternatives to Animal Testing
According to the 8th Edition of the Australian Code of Practice for the Care and Use of Animals for Scientific Purposes, investigators must provide the University of Canberra's Animal Ethics Committee with details of why the use of animals is essential to achieve all the stated aims, potential alternatives that are available to replace the use of animals in all or part of the project, and why these alternatives are not suitable. [2.7.4 (iii)]. The Code also states that "before the use of animals is considered, all existing information relevant to the proposed aim(s), including existing databased must be examined" [1.19].
The 3Rs - Replacement, Reduction and Refinement
The 3Rs (Replacement, Reduction and Refinement) are accepted internationally as critical components of the ethical, humane and responsible care and use of animals for scientific purposes.
Replacement: Approaches that enable researchers to achieve the scientific objectives of a study without the use of live animals. This includes the use of alternative methods such as in vitro systems (e.g., cell or tissue cultures), computer modeling, or studies using lower organisms not considered capable of experiencing pain.
Reduction: Methods for obtaining comparable levels of information from the use of fewer animals in scientific procedures or for obtaining more information from the same number of animals. The number of animals used must satisfy good statistical design. The use of too few animals may invalidate experimental results and cause wastage of animals.
Refinement: Strategies and techniques that reduce or minimize potential pain, distress, or suffering in animals during research. This also includes improving the overall welfare of animals by enhancing living conditions, refining experimental procedures, and using less invasive methods.
Click below for specific examples or download a copy of the whole document here:
Alternatives to Animal Testing
Below you can find a list of existing websites and databases which may provide you with the required information. If you would like to suggest other websites and/or databases then please contact the Research Ethics & Integrity Office.