The healthcare sector consumes significant energy and materials, particularly during crises like COVID-19, which required widespread testing and vaccination efforts with notable environmental impacts. This study evaluates the Global Warming Potential (GWP) of different COVID-19 community testing methods, comparing self-testing, health worker-administered rapid antigen tests (RDTs), and PCR tests using a climate-focused Life Cycle Assessment.

Key Findings

• Rapid antigen test (RDTs) have a lower carbon footprint than PCR test across all scenarios, with emissions driven mainly by consumables and transport rather than the test itself. 

• Systematic testing during low transmission phases generates disproportionately high emissions with limited health benefits

• The study underscores the need to integrate environmental considerations into public health strategies.

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