The Environment & Animal Society of Taiwan
台灣動物社會研究會
The Environment & Animal Society of Taiwan (EAST) is a registered non-profit, non-government organization based in Taipei. We seek to solve the most neglected issues and believe that effective change happens at the systematic and institutional level. Since our founding in 1999, we have successfully advocated for ground-breaking changes which touch the lives of millions of animals each year. Our work includes research & investigations, policy advocacy, corporate engagement, industry engagement and public awareness.
Our mission is to reshape the relationship between humans, animals, and the environment by conducting thorough research and investigations that shine a light on mistreatment, cruelty and injustice. Through our efforts, we aim to raise awareness, advocate for systemic and institutional change, and create a world where animals are treated with compassion, dignity, and respect.
We are committed to speaking out for animals of all kinds – namely farmed animals, animals used in research, companion animals, animals used in entertainment, wild animals and marine life – and advancing civic participation and transparent government. As Taiwan’s animal protection movement has matured and new organizations have emerged, we have devoted a greater portion of our resources to the most neglected cause areas: the welfare of animals used for food (including aquatic animals) and in research and testing, and conserving our marine life.
Exposes the ineffectiveness of humane slaughter equipment at public slaughterhouses, where workers fail to properly stun pigs before slaughtering them by throat-cutting, causing immense suffering to the animals. Efforts are being made to advocate for government regulations on humane slaughter, organize educational training for industry personnel, and support the introduction of international humane slaughter techniques and professional training.
Protesting against the "Sacrificial Pig Weight Contest" held by some temples in Taiwan under the guise of religion and traditional culture, the campaign exposes documented animal cruelty from rearing to slaughter and advocates for innovative worship practices. Through ongoing advocacy, several temples have announced the cessation of such contests or transitioned to creative and eco-friendly sacrificial pig rituals.
Spent three years investigating nationwide practices of stray animal capture and sheltering, releasing footage exposing government mistreatment. Advocated for better policies, resulting in the closure of 100 substandard shelters and a Legislative Yuan directive for improved shelter management and infrastructure. Improved countless stray animals' lives!
Advocated for the Ministry of Health and Welfare to amend the Evaluation Methods for Health Food Efficacy, calling for the elimination of inappropriate animal testing to reduce animal suffering while safeguarding public health.
Successfully abolished animal testing for three efficacy claims: "anti-fatigue," "blood pressure regulation," and "dental health." Efforts are ongoing to engage with government agencies and push for the removal of all animal testing in health food evaluations.
