EPA plan to end animal testing splits scientists

Some see nonanimal models as the future, but others worry about health impacts. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) will phase out all toxicity testing on mammals by 2035. Some scientists are hailing the move, saying nonanimal alternatives like organs on chips and computer programs are faster and cheaper than animal models. But others are concerned that such technologies aren't ready for prime time, and that they could allow toxic chemicals to get into the environment and into consumer products. Groups that support animal research are also concerned that EPA was influenced by the chemical industry and animal advocacy organizations. EPA has also announced that it will reduce pesticide testing in birds.