EPA’s Renewed Commitment to Phasing Out Animal Testing
WASHINGTON – On Wednesday, EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin announced a renewed commitment to eliminate testing of chemicals on mammals by 2035. This goal was initially set during the Trump administration, but the Biden administration had previously moved away from this deadline, which had hindered advancements in alternative testing methods that do not involve animals.
During a press conference, Zeldin emphasized the agency’s determination to meet this deadline, stating, “We will continue to aggressively pursue opportunities to reduce animal testing as quickly as possible. This 2035 date is seen as more than just a target; it is a deadline that can and must be met.” He stressed that innovation is progressing and they will explore new ways to minimize animal testing.
Justin Goodman, executive vice president of White Coat Waste (WCW), criticized the approach of the Biden EPA, suggesting that the current testing practices are not ideal. He echoed that the shift in leadership under Zeldin was anticipated, noting Zeldin’s previous efforts to eliminate dog testing at the Department of Veterans Affairs.
WCW, a nonprofit focused on reducing animal testing, has called attention to controversial practices, including abusive experiments funded by the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) under Dr. Anthony Fauci. Their investigations revealed troubling procedures involving Beagle puppies, such as infecting them with parasites for drug testing; some got euthanized after undergoing procedures.
At the conclusion of the meeting, Zeldin signed a memo reaffirming the EPA’s goal of phasing out animal testing by 2035, with a beagle named Oliver, rescued from a testing facility, present during the event.
Various speakers, including former EPA Administrator Andrew Wheeler and others from humane organizations, provided their support for this new initiative to reduce reliance on animal testing, emphasizing the importance of ethical considerations in scientific research.
