Westgate Labs, in partnership with Adreco Plastics, is proud to announce that their pioneering compostable container has been shortlisted in the Material Sustainability category at the 2025 Plastics Industry Awards.
Together, the two companies have created the UK’s first 100% compostable veterinary diagnostic kit container, replacing the single-use plastics that have been industry standard for decades. Made from BioGaer 5530, a UK-developed plant-based biomaterial, the rigid, airtight pot meets stringent postal and laboratory requirements while offering a safe, sustainable end-of-life option.
For postal worm egg count company, Westgate Labs, sustainability is at the heart of everything they do. From reducing chemical use in parasite control to creating a nature reserve on their farm in rural Northumberland, the family run business is passionate about making a difference for animals and the environment. This project represents another milestone in that journey.
Commenting on the nomination, Claire Shand, Marketing Director at Westgate Labs commented:
“It looks like plastic, it behaves like plastic, but it’s completely compostable. This is the final piece of the puzzle to making our range of test kits 100% sustainable and zero waste. We had been searching for a solution like this for a long time, and working with Sam and his team at Adreco to bring that vision to life has been fantastic. Together we feel we’re pushing boundaries, and we’re absolutely thrilled to see that recognised with this award nomination.”
Sam Hill is the CEO of Adreco Plastics which supports clients across healthcare, defence, construction, and beyond, sees this project as part of its wider mission to help industries achieve bold sustainability goals. He added:
“Being shortlisted for this award recognises the technical sophistication, creativity, and leadership of our team. We’re proud to have worked with Westgate Labs on a project that not only reduces waste but also proves biomaterials can succeed in high-performance applications. This is a model for the future of sustainable plastics.”
Westgate Labs are in the unique position of being responsible for all their packaging waste as it is returned with the sample, this innovation enables a truly closed-loop approach to waste management. Once processed, the used pots can go directly onto the muck heap with the rest of the compostable packaging. The result is a 90% reduction in waste-to-landfill, completing the company’s ambition to deliver fully sustainable, zero-waste worm egg count kits.
Westgate Labs has been pioneering postal worm egg counts since 1999, making parasite control easier, greener, and more effective for horse owners. Their simple poo-testing kits, expert advice, and subscription plans help target treatment where it’s really needed, reducing drug resistance and promoting healthier horses and land.