TOP NEWS THIS WEEK
New York Declaration on Animal Consciousness: On April 19, a group of leading biologists and philosophers issued the New York Declaration on Animal Consciousness. This statement acknowledges the “realistic possibility” that a wide range of animals, including insects, cephalopods, crustaceans, fish, and other overlooked beings, possess phenomenal consciousness – the capacity to experience sensations like pain or pleasure.
The declaration challenges assumptions about the level of neural complexity required for consciousness. It highlights research showing complex cognitive behaviors in animals with vastly different neurological architectures than humans. From bees exhibiting signs of play to octopuses using tools, these findings suggest consciousness may arise in surprising ways. Read The New York Declaration.
Remote Careers in Animal Advocacy: The landscape of animal advocacy careers is rapidly evolving, with a surge in remote and hybrid roles that enable advocates to contribute globally. Animal Advocacy Careers’ job board data reveals 32.77% of roles offer fully remote positions, while 39.50% have adopted hybrid models.
Key departments driving impact include fundraising, operations, policy and legal work, marketing and communications, campaigns and corporate engagement, and leadership roles. Roles like Fundraising Manager, Operations Administrator, Public Policy Specialist, Communications Director/Manager, Corporate Engagement Manager, Campaign Manager, and Director/CEO are in high demand. If you’re looking for a job or volunteer role, check out the Animal Advocacy Careers job board.
Innovative Cell Model Could End Animal Testing for Inhaled Medicines: Scientists at ImmuONE in Stevenage, UK, have developed the world’s first 3D cell model replicating a human lung. This groundbreaking invention could represent a major step towards ending animal testing for inhaled medicines and cosmetic products.
Companies developing such products must currently test them on animals to meet legal safety requirements. However, ImmuONE’s artificial lung model can analyze the impact of inhaled substances without involving animals, potentially rendering animal testing obsolete in many cases. This achievement underscores the growing potential of cutting-edge technologies to replace outdated and unethical animal testing practices. Read the full story.
SOCIAL SPOTLIGHT
The Roadblocks to Ending Animal Testing
Despite the availability of promising alternatives like organoids, organs-on-chips, and computer simulations, animal testing remains the dominant method for product testing and medical research. According to many scientists who are required to perform animal testing, the tests generally aren’t even useful, and some scientists simply check a box saying they performed animal tests without actually doing it.
Accurate and cost-effective testing methods do not require using animals. One key factor perpetuating animal testing is the lack of institutional investment in and acceptance of non-animal alternatives. Regulatory hurdles, public skepticism, and the inertia of long-standing practices also pose significant challenges.
Ultimately, a serious national conversation about our relationship with other species and a shift in societal values may be necessary to drive meaningful change towards more ethical testing methods. Read more on Sentient Media.
QUICK BITES
Vegan Seven-Layer Nachos: Take your nacho game to new heights with Meera Sodha’s indulgent seven-layer creation. Layers of refried beans, vegan crème fraîche, guacamole, pico de gallo, vegan cheese, olives, and jalapeños come together for a flavor explosion. Find the recipe on The Guardian.
Easy Vegan Apple Raisin Fruit Crisp: This four-step dish from Beverly Lynn Bennett is a perfect way to enjoy fall fruits. A crisp topping of rolled oats, vanilla, and spices takes apples (or your favorite fruit) to a new level of deliciousness. Add some chopped nuts or sunflower seeds for extra crunch and nutrition. Get the recipe on VegNews.
DID YOU KNOW?
The first accredited course on animal rights was offered at Yale in 1986, taught by philosophy professor Dale Jamieson. It explored the philosophical and practical dimensions of extending rights to nonhuman animals, challenging traditional views and sparking important discussions on campus.
SHARE YOUR THOUGHTS
The social spotlight highlights the complex web of interests and roadblocks hindering progress towards ending animal testing. What do you think needs to change – institutionally, legally, or culturally – to overcome these obstacles and drive widespread adoption of ethical, animal-free testing methods? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
Stay informed and keep advocating for a more vegan world. See you next week with more updates!
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