Rapid Antigen Tests – Rubbish or Recyclable?
Countless rapid antigen tests (RATs) are being used in households across the nation each day, but what should we do with them once they’re used? While these self-tests are vital for reducing the spread of COVID-19 in the community, they have created a significant amount of waste. This has led to questions around which bin RATs belong in.
The paper instructions and cardboard packaging that most at-home RATs come in can be recycled in your recycling (blue lid) bin. However, the nasal swab, buffer tube and cassette (the part that shows your result) cannot be recycled. According to the EPA, these components should be disposed of by:
- Placing the test along with any swabs and tubes in the plastic bag provided, or another plastic bag
- Sealing the bag and placing it into a second bag, such as a bin liner
- Disposing of the double-bagged RAT in your garbage (dark green) bin.
This avoids contamination and potentially infectious waste being handled.
Some RATs also contain small UV torches to illuminate results. These are classified as e-waste and do not belong in your recycling or garbage bin. You can recycle your light at the Stonnington Waste Transfer Station or one of Council’s recycling stations. You can also contact your local animal rescue centre or the Animal Rescue Cooperative to find out whether they require them for detecting skin issues in animals or creating trauma kits.
It’s critical to dispose of these items correctly to keep the community safe. You can still reduce your waste footprint in other ways and have a positive impact on our environment.
