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Speak up for animals used in science

Take action Speak up for animals used in science
Take action

Speak up for animals used in science

Every year, over 300,000 animals are manipulated for research, testing and teaching in New Zealand. An additional 130,000 animals are bred specifically for science but are never used, and subsequently killed. 

We need speak up for animals used in harmful and unnecessary research methods and leave animal experimentation where it belongs – in the past. 

Demand action for animals used in research, testing and teaching

Email the National Animal Ethics Advisory Committee (NAEAC), the Australian and New Zealand Council for the Care of Animals in Research and Teaching (ANZCCART) and the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI), urging them to prioritise the development of alternatives to animal-based research. 

Key points you can make: 

  • I am concerned that more than 300,000 animals are manipulated in antiquated research methods every year in New Zealand. 
  • It is completely unethical for research institutions to breed over 130,000 animals every year, just to euthanise and discard them.  
  • There are a multitude of innovative technological solutions to animal-based research methods, including the use of sophisticated computer models, synthetic human tissues and 3D printing.  
  • NAEAC, ANZCCART and MPI must prioritise research and development into ethical solutions and implement a requirement for scientific institutions to use non-animal methods wherever possible. 

This email will be sent directly to NAEAC, ANZCCART and MPI. Emails are public information. If you would like to withhold any of your information, please specify this in your email. 

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Animal research in New Zealand

Most animal research in New Zealand is conducted for the agricultural sector in order to increase profits and productivity. In 2019, over 80,000 cows and 70,000 sheep were used in experiments. This research includes genetically modifying cows to increase milk production and researching slaughter methods and pain management.

The Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) oversees the use of animals in research – the same Government body responsible for improving agricultural productivity. This is a clear conflict of interest and forms a key reason why SAFE is calling for a Commissioner for Animals to provide independent oversight, monitoring and advice on animal welfare in Aotearoa.

Demand a Commissioner for Animals

The future is here

Alternatives to animal-based scientific methods are abundant. Computer programs, human-derived materials, and synthetic human organs can used to test medicines and vaccines. Mannequins, models and even virtual reality simulations can be used for training medical and veterinary students.

Animal-based research in New Zealand persists not because it’s essential, but because little has been done to prioritise the development of these innovate solutions. We must speak up on behalf of animals used in unnecessary experiments and make scientific advancements without animal cruelty.

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