OTTAWA, ONTARIO
MONDAY, DECEMBER 1, 2024
EDITORIAL 2025
IMMACULATA'S STUDENT RUN NON-PROFIT NEWSPAPER. SINCE 2022
VOLUME 1
TUESDAY,OCTOBER 11,2023| PLUTO UDECHUKWU
The term animal testing refers to the use of animals in experiments to test the safety and effectiveness of products. Unfortunately it is not in the sense that makeup is being used in a literal way to beautify and animal but to cause them pain, suffering, distress or lasting harm by injecting chemicals into them.Animal testing has long been a subject of ethical debate and concern among individuals who value the well-being and rights of animals. While some argue that animal testing is necessary for scientific advancements, others strongly believe that the practice inflicts unnecessary harm upon innocent creatures.
Picture this: your favorite shampoo, lipstick or foundation. Now imagine it being tested on innocent animals, like bunnies and mice. It's not a great image, right? Animal testing, where companies experiment on animals, might sound like something from the past, but it's still happening today.
It's like a science experiment, but the subjects are fluffy adorable beings with feelings. Animals feel pain and stress, just like us. And honestly, who wants their beauty routine to come at the cost of an animal's well-being?Fortunately, in recent years, many brands have recognized the ethical concerns associated with animal testing and have adopted cruelty-free practices. These brands go the extra mile to ensure that their products are not tested on animals at any stage. By opting for cruelty-free products, consumers can support these brands and contribute to the growing movement against animal testing. Some example would be e.l.f. Cosmetics, NYX Professional Makeup, and The Body Shop
Animal testing raises significant ethical concerns as it involves inflicting pain, suffering, and even death upon sentient creatures that cannot consent to such practices. It challenges our moral principles and questions the justifiability of causing harm to animals for human benefits. Animals, although biologically similar to humans, do not always respond to tests in the same way. This disparity can lead to misleading and inaccurate results, potentially compromising the safety and effectiveness of products intended for human use.
With advancements in technology, there has been a rise in alternative testing methods that do not involve animals. These methods, such as in vitro testing, computer modeling, and tissue engineering, provide more accurate and reliable results, reducing the need for animal experimentation.
How Can We Help?
By staying informed about the issue of animal testing and its harmful implications, we can make conscious choices as consumers and support brands that prioritize cruelty-free practices. Look for products that are certified cruelty-free by organizations such as Leaping Bunny or PETA. These labels ensure that the brand does not engage in animal testing at any stage of product development.: Voice your concerns to lawmakers, influencers, and companies themselves, urging them to adopt cruelty-free practices and support the use of alternative testing methods. Supporting organizations dedicated to ending animal testing can also make a difference.Share your knowledge about the harms of animal testing with friends, family, and social media followers. Encourage them to join the movement towards cruelty-free practices and make informed purchasing decisions.
Animal testing remains a contentious issue, with far-reaching consequences for both animals and humans. By supporting brands that do not test on animals, advocating for change, and embracing alternative testing methods, we can collectively contribute to a more compassionate and ethically conscious society. Together, we have the power to make a difference and pave the way towards a future where animals are spared unnecessary suffering in the name of scientific progress.
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WRITTEN BY PLUTO UDECHUKWU
Pluto Udechukwu, a 10th grader at Immaculata High School, mainly covers the newsroom's opinion and multimedia sections. She is also the CO-editor and CO-founder of Immaculata Chronicles she also created the news website. Pluto is on the Cross-country and girl's hockey teams at Immaculata. Outside of school, pluto loves figure skating and is a member of the Nepean skating club. She also enjoys baking in her free time.
Pluto can be reached as pluto.udechukwu@stu.ocsb.ca