Fourth World Congress - Preface

Andrew N. Rowan

The Fourth World Congress on Alternatives and Animal Use in the Life Sciences was held in New Orleans, Louisiana, USA, on 11–15 August 2002. Over 500 participants from more than 30 countries attended, including scientists, veterinarians, regulators, educators and animal protectionists. The publication of the Congress proceedings coincides with the 45th anniversary of the publication of Russell and Burch’s landmark book, The Principles of Humane Experimental Technique, and this new volume is a fitting tribute to William Russell and Rex Burch and their legacy. It reflects the progress that has been made in implementing the concept of the Three Rs of reduction, refinement and replacement in animal research, education and testing.