Making the 3Rs More Than a Checkbox Webinar

The 3Rs—Replacement, Reduction, and Refinement—are fundamental principles in animal research aimed at enhancing ethical standards and scientific quality. However, their implementation often becomes a perfunctory task, failing to fully realize their potential.

The University of Washington (UW) challenged themselves to make the 3Rs more than a checkbox through strategic initiatives. Key approaches included fostering a culture of ethical responsibility, enhancing awareness, providing pilot funding for 3Rs-focused initiatives, and partnering with the 3Rs Collaborative (3RsC).

By prioritizing innovative methodologies and technologies, promoting interdisciplinary collaboration, and ensuring transparent communication of 3R advancements, UW researchers are working together to significantly improve animal welfare and research outcomes.

The goal is to embed the 3Rs into the scientific ethos, making them a continuous and dynamic process that enhances both ethical standards and scientific integrity. This commitment is leading to a transformative impact, positioning UW as a leader in ethical animal research practices.