Vision and mission
Vision
The 3RCC drives the advancement of the 3Rs Principle in Switzerland through activities, which improve welfare for animals in research and promote better science. The 3RCC envisions a new era in which replacement, reduction and refinement are consistently implemented to minimise the use of animals and the harm imposed on them, thereby promoting scientifically valid and ethically responsible research. The Centre aspires to be the leading source in Switzerland for information on the 3Rs and its implementation in all research areas.
Mission
Effective implementation of the 3Rs Principle depends on the recognition of its utility and knowledge in how to translate theory into action. Knowledge should inspire the scientific community to achieve more for improved animal welfare and better science. Increasing the visibility of the 3Rs in the public increases transparency on how methods are implemented and how this impacts animal welfare. Furthermore, to realise the full potential of the application of the 3Rs Principle, there is a need to continuously challenge the status quo of the rapidly changing research landscape and to pursue the implementation of effective 3Rs methods wherever possible. Finally, where science is pushing the boundaries for the possibilities in replacing the use of animals, the 3RCC will catalyse this innovation and its application to the benefit of 3Rs advancement.
Values
The 3RCC will tackle its mission in a proactive manner, committed to effectively addressing gaps in knowledge and to anticipate and respond to trends that influence animal use. The broad stakeholder representation requires an inclusive and respectful discourse, which always seeks collaborative solutions across different fields and views. The Centre seeks to build trust through a transparent working manner and promotes transparency in research involving animals, through effective monitoring and communication. Compassion is intrinsic to the 3Rs Principle and a reference frame for the 3RCC’s working manner, which is rooted in a scientific perspective and strictly follows evidence-based practice.