JEI Ethical Standards Announced; One of the Eight Categories is Animals

The Japan Ethical Initiative (JEI), a general incorporated association in which Animal Rights Center participates, has released the “JEI Ethical Standards”, which encompass ethical issues.

The Ethical Standards are comprised of the following 8 major categories:

1. Natural environment is protected
2. Human rights are respected
3. Consumers are respected
4. Animal welfare and rights are protected
5. Product and service information is disclosed
6. Consideration is given to, and contributions are made to, the local community in which the organization operates
7. Appropriate management is being carried out
8. Collaborating proactively with suppliers and stakeholders

Of these categories, [4. Animal welfare and rights are protected] includes the following criteria:

• 4.1 Using livestock and aquatic products that have undergone proper production processes
• 4.2 Using livestock and aquatic products within the limits of sustainable amount of resources
• 4.3 No animal testing carried out (with the exception of the pharmaceutical field)
• 4.4 No sale, purchase, or use of animals or their body parts subject to restricted trade
• 4.5 Avoiding the use of animal-derived raw materials (fashion)
• 4.6 Avoiding the use of live animals in trade or exhibition

These Ethical Standards are primarily intended for use by small and medium-sized businesses, encouraging them to make efforts to address each of these eight categories, even if not all of the criteria are met.

In each criterion, the first level to aim for is “A”, with “S” representing a more internationally advanced level.

Users of these standards are asked to conduct self-evaluation and to be prepared to publicly release evidence demonstrating that they have met the criteria if requested.

We invite you to encourage your employer, local governments, and schools to utilize the Ethical Standards.

Translation thanks to Haruka U.