SureScreen to make biodegradable Covid tests

SureScreen Diagnostics is claiming a world first by mass producing biodegradable lateral flow test cassettes for Covid-19.

The firm has been at the forefront of UK testing for the past year and has exported to more than 50 countries and kingdoms across the world.

But the company recognised that the increase in one-use medical products has been reversing the battle against plastic pollution.

The new tests will use biodegradable materials for the test cassette housing and will be available within weeks.

Director David Campbell said: “This is just the start. We are continuing to research and trial other plant-based materials throughout the kits to make them more sustainable.

“We hope other lateral flow test manufacturers will also move to using more sustainable materials wherever possible.

“We would welcome their collaboration on this project, and we are very happy to share all of our research to help other companies move to using more sustainable materials.”