New technologies such as organ-on-chips, 3D bioprinting, and artificial neural networks now make it possible to study human biology directly, producing safer and more accurate results without animal suffering.
Across Europe, the movement toward non-animal methods is gaining momentum. The “Save Cruelty-Free Cosmetics” European Citizens’ Initiative gathered more than 1.2 million signatures. In response, the European Commission committed to developing a Roadmap to phase out animal testing in chemical safety assesssment, with the support of over 140 scientists urging to accelerate the transition to non-animal science. The European Research Area (ERA) is now integrating non-animal methods into its 2025–2027 policy agenda, with a Commission roadmap expected in 2026.
However, Italy still invests over €1.3 billion every year in animal testing, with no dedicated funding for humane alternatives. Despite a 2014 law prioritising non-animal research. This is a serious shortcoming that leaves the country lagging behind scientifically, ethically and culturally.
For just three years, from 2020 to 2022, thanks to LAV’s efforts, was a small national fund restored to support innovative projects in public universities and research centres.
Today, LAV is once again leading the way. Together with Italian universities and research institutions, it supports cutting-edge studies using 3D human tissue models to explore pain mechanisms, lung diseases, and environmental pollutants, proving that ethical science is also effective science.
Demanding a science based on non-animal models is not only a moral duty for the millions of animals that die, but also a scientific necessity, the only truly just approach for everyone: humans, children, the elderly, animals and the environment.
On 22nd and 23rd November, LAV will take to the streets to call on the Government, Parliament and Regions to fund non-animal scientific research. By doing so, hundreds of researchers would have the opportunity to develop innovative projects, save millions of animals, and make Italian science more competitive and compassionate.
Find out more on LAV’s campaign page (Italian only).
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