ECHA’s workshop opens way for animal testing-free chemicals regulation

Over 500 participants joined ECHA’s workshop on new approach methodologies (NAM) to discuss ways to replace animal testing in the hazard assessment of industrial chemicals, whilst ensuring a high level of protection of human health and the environment. 

Helsinki, 1 June 2023 – The workshop, held on 31 May and 1 June, focused on achieving a common understanding of what NAMs can achieve in the short and long term. The participants discussed potential areas where NAMs could be used to reduce regulatory dependence on data generated with animal tests and how to accelerate their regulatory acceptance.

While important progress has been made on the implementation of NAMs, challenges still remain. During the workshop participants discussed NAMs’ potential to accelerate the pace of the assessments and provide better science while taking into consideration ethical values.