This initiative supports and strengthens the existing REACH framework, the EU’s chemicals legislation, and is a concrete outcome of the Chemicals Action Plan presented by the Commission in July 2025. With 22 measures across three pillars, the roadmap aims to phase out animal testing for chemical safety assessment in 15 areas, including chemicals for industrial and consumer use, pesticides and biocides, pharmaceuticals, and food and feed additives. 

The three pillars are: Advancing the phased-out of animal testing and accelerating the development and adoption of non-animal methods. It sets out 30 targeted recommendations for the replacement, reduction, or refinement of animal testing for human health and environmental safety assessments. The second pillar focuses on keeping Europe at the forefront of research and innovation by supporting a diverse ecosystem of research and entrepreneurial innovation to develop animal-free approaches, including AI-based approaches. The third pillar focuses on collaboration within Europe and beyond. 

Source and further information:
https://ec.europa.eu/commission/presscorner/detail/en/ip_26_1214