Environmental enrichment as an ethical principle in animal research
Abstract
Animals used in experiments have reduced levels of welfare and are thus vulnerable to pain and suffering. Considering that environmental enrichment increases the quality of life of captive animals, we aimed to assess its
scientific application regarding the promotion of animal welfare by recognizing the vulnerability of biological models. Documentary analysis and experimental tests were conducted, stating that despite this technique having been
applied mainly in neuroscience studies, endorsing their feasibility and the improvement in learning, the rationale for its use has been limited to the successful development of research, that is, not in recognition of animals’ vulnerability, their need for welfare and quality of life. In contrast, we proposed the application of environmental enrichment for laboratory animals, within a framework of scientific contractualism and the researcher’s responsibility, as a
standard to be adopted for the mutual benefit of scientific development and the quality of animal life.
