Green plans at Birmingham airport

Discussions about introducing a carbon offset charge at Birmingham International airport are underway. The idea has been put forward in a planning document drawn up by the Birmingham Strategic Partnership (BSP) - a body representing the city council, public agencies, businesses and the voluntary sector. The document states:

"The BSP will work in partnership with BIA to explore the potential to develop a voluntary opt out carbon offset charge on all flights out of Birmingham. The funds raised may be used to reduce carbon emissions from low income domestic properties by investing in renewables."

Payment of the carbon offset charge would be voluntary and although no figure has been set, £5 is being canvassed for flights in Europe. The BSP view the charge as one way of neutralising the impact of the additional carbon emissions from the proposed extension of the main runway at the airport and also the construction of a second runway.

Richard Heard, managing director at Birmingham International Airport, said:

"BIA takes climate change very seriously and works in conjunction with the airlines on schemes to manage and improve climate change. We are currently investigating a number of industry and stand alone voluntary carbon off-set schemes and plan to bring forward our proposals in the new year."

If you are flying from Birmingham airport don't forget to take a look at our bargain deals on airport hotels and airport parking.

By: Abby Oleksik