Animal-friendly Cosmetics
OneKind seeks an end to the use of all animals in experiments, and their replacement with humane non-animal methods.
We want to see this happen as soon as possible. One area where there can be no justification for allowing animal testing to continue is the cosmetics industry. As long ago as 2003, the European Union agreed a law (7th Amendment to the Cosmetics Directive76/768/EEC) to phase out animal testing of cosmetics and the marketing of animal-tested cosmetics. The final part of the process – a ban on the marketing of all animal-tested cosmetics – should be completed by 2013. However, this ban is now under threat.
The problem
In 2011, the European Commission will report to the European Parliament and the Council of Ministers on the progress towards developing and implementing alternative non-animal methods. There is now significant concern that these will not be ready, meaning that the overall marketing ban may be delayed until 2017 or 2019 or even later.
The solution
OneKind has submitted a response to the European Commission’s consultation on its draft report on the prospects for developing non-animal methods for cosmetics testing. But in addition to this, we think that users of cosmetics (i.e. most of us!) should vote with our wallets to demonstrate that there is no consumer desire for products that have been developed at the cost of animal suffering.
How we will achieve it
We plan to harness consumer power, rather than waiting for legislation – which may only delay and confuse matters – to come in slowly. The market is a powerful influence on cosmetics companies and we believe that, working together, we can make the producers listen.
We need to build a strong movement of caring people like you and me to increase our consumer power. We also want to ensure that if and when the time comes we can act together to make sure our politicians get a clear message that the compassionate majority want cosmetics to be animals-friendly. We will get in touch when you can help with this.
How you can help
When buying any cosmetic products choose those that are animal-friendly. Look on the label to check that the product was not tested on animals. The ‘leaping bunny’ logo is a sure sign that a product is not tested on animals.
Also join our movement. Simply sign up to receive regular e-mail updates on our campaigns, tips on living an animal-friendly lifestyle and other exciting and meaningful ways you can get involved. From time to time we will also have offers from animal-friendly companies that will allow you to get discounts and other benefits. Thank you for making a difference.