AFSA Collaboration Awarded 2026 Lush Prize for Major Scientific Collaboration

On behalf of Clive, as a member of the AFSA Global Science Committee, we are pleased to share that the Animal-Free Safety Assessment (AFSA) Collaboration has received the 2026 Lush Prize for Major Scientific Collaboration.

The award was accepted in London, UK, by Jay Ingram and Giorgia Pallocca, representatives from Humane World for Animals, on behalf of all AFSA partner organizations.

Presented annually, the Lush Prize celebrates the collective efforts of organizations and scientists to advance animal-free approaches to safety assessment and help drive broader adoption of New Approach Methodologies (NAMs). The Major Scientific Collaboration award specifically acknowledges the impact of multi-sector partnerships working together for this cause.

This year, AFSA has been recognized for its emphasis on collaborative, science-driven efforts to accelerate the transition toward more human-relevant and ethically responsible safety science.

Here is a sample of AFSA’s collaborative efforts:

• Development of decision-tree approaches supporting the global phase-out of animal testing for acute and local toxicity endpoints

• Scientific workshops and masterclasses focused on animal-free cosmetic and chemical ingredient safety assessment

• Publications addressing the implementation of the “last resort” principle under REACH

• Research highlighting the impact of aquatic toxicity testing and opportunities to reduce animal use
  

This recognition from the Lush Prize reflects the momentum that continues to build around in vivo animal-free science and the importance of collaboration in advancing innovative approaches toward broader acceptance and implementation.

Roper Toxicology Consulting Limited extends our congratulations to all AFSA partner organizations and thanks the Lush Prize for recognizing the value of collaborative scientific progress toward advancing animal-free approaches. 

To learn more about AFSA, watch this short video here.