EPAA marks 20 years of progress towards a future without animal testing

Established as a “bold experiment” in partnership between regulators and business, the EPAA has become a leading example of how innovation, industrial competitiveness and ethical responsibility can go hand in hand. Over the past twenty years, it has built a trusted platform connecting policymakers, scientists, and industry experts to promote the “3Rs” principles — replacement, reduction and refinement of animal use in testing.

EPAA’s work has been instrumental in advancing alternatives in chemical safety assessments and in supporting Europe’s landmark ban on animal testing for cosmetics, which has inspired action around the world. The Partnership now plays a central role in the implementation of the European Commission’s roadmap to phase out animal testing for chemical safety assessments, helping to accelerate the adoption of human-relevant, innovative methods.

Collaborative progress and shared vision

The anniversary event brought together policymakers, industry leaders, scientists and regulators to discuss the future of animal-free safety assessment. Panel discussions explored new policy initiatives, the regulatory acceptance of non-animal methods, and the implementation of the Commission’s roadmap to phase out animal testing.

Participants underlined the EPAA’s role as a unique forum for dialogue and cooperation between sectors.

A European success story

Over two decades, EPAA has helped transform the regulatory landscape by integrating alternative methods into safety assessments, fostering public-private collaboration, and demonstrating that ethical science and innovation can reinforce each other. As Europe moves towards a future without animal testing, EPAA’s legacy — and its community of partners — will continue to shape safer, more sustainable, and human-relevant approaches for the years ahead.