Animal testing is both inhumane and unscientific and the Prize aims to speed the introduction of non-animal testing, particularly in toxicity testing for consumer products and ingredients.
Launched in 2012 as an annual prize, and becoming biennial in 2018, the prizes are available across a number of categories. These are:
- Science
- Training
- Young Researcher
- Public Awareness
- Lobbying
In 2015 we also awarded a Black Box Prize, for a major breakthrough in 21st Century Toxicology – the area which holds out most hope for a ‘Eureka’ moment leading to the replacement of animal tests. The full £250,000 was awarded to a group of scientists involved in mapping, designing and approving replacement tests in the human toxicity pathway of skin sensitisation (allergy).
Lush Prize winners are chosen by a panel of independent judges comprising of research scientists, campaigners, politicians and members of the public. An awards ceremony and conference is held during each prize cycle.
