How are ethical considerations addressed in toxicology?
Ethical considerations in toxicology involve issues related to animal testing, human trials, and the environmental impact of toxic substances. Laboratories must comply with ethical guidelines such as the 3Rs principle (Replacement, Reduction, Refinement) when using animals in research. In human studies, informed consent and the protection of participant privacy are paramount. Additionally, toxicologists must strive to minimize the ecological footprint of their research by employing sustainable practices and considering the long-term effects of chemicals on the ecosystem.