Our Policy

Mission and Vision

TNO accepts that individual animals have an intrinsic value. TNO also endorses the view that there are circumstances that justify the use of laboratory animals. At the same time, TNO realises that, by performing animal research, the researcher (Principle Investigator) and the TNO Board of Management become responsible for ethical considerations and animal welfare. Animal experiments are only acceptable if no suitable alternative is available and the goal of the study outweighs the discomfort the animals may experience. Refinement, reduction and replacement (3Rs) in animal testing are leading principles. TNO operates within the boundaries of relevant legislation and, when applicable, in compliance with quality criteria of the Association for Assessment and Accreditation of Laboratory Animal Care (AAALAC). A dedicated, independent Animal Ethics Committee evaluates all projects involving animals. Furthermore, together with dedicated animal care staff, the TNO Animal Welfare Body ensures an appropriate culture of care.

Although animal experiments have made progress in science and human health and welfare possible, there is a need for methods with a better substantiated predictivity for the human/patient situation. Improvement of current methodologies can be realised by implementing innovative 3R methods. This thinking is anchored in our policy, research programs and communication.

Ambition

• TNO has the intention to conduct excellent biomedical research, with the aim of improving human health. To this end, various technologies are being developed and applied, both clinically and pre-clinically. Pre-clinical techniques (in silico, in vitro, laboratory animals) focus on the predictive value for humans.
• Investment in animal-free innovation does not mean that TNO will not carry out animal tests in the coming years. It does mean that TNO will focus its own research resources on replacement and reduction, but certainly also on refinement. It is our ambition not only to develop new innovative 3R methods, but also to accelerate acceptance and implementation of these methods. This is why we involve and collaborate with all relevant stakeholders, including academia, regulators, government and industry.
• In our society, transparency and communication are essential. TNO provides information about its actions and position in the field of animal testing in order to promote a dialogue based on mutual respect. This dialogue is strengthened by the objective exchange of information - without negatively affecting the safety of researchers and lab animals or the confidentiality of research data - and maximum transparency.

TNO's internal policy on animal testing and alternatives includes instructions on related topics such as the training of personnel, education, facilities, transparency and responsibility. In January 2018 TNO has revised the policy on animal experiments in order to run in parallel with the TNO strategy period (2018-2021). Click here to download the policy document.

• TNO Policy document on laboratory animals and animal experiments