Norwich International Airport is replacing all of its lighting to reduce its carbon footprint and save money in the long-term.

At present all lighting in the terminal building, workshops and other departments uses standard energy lighting, for example fluorescent tubes.

But it's now being changed to LED energy efficient lights.

Andrew Bell, the airport's chief executive, said: 'We had been talking about doing it for a while and felt it was now or never.

'Our lights are currently emitting/producing 342 tonnes of carbon dioxide a year and this will be reduced to 107, which is a reduction of more than 70pc.'

The airport has worked with the Carbon Trust, a not-for-profit company that provides support to help businesses lower costs by cutting carbon emissions, on the scheme, which is expected to take about a week to complete.

Mr Bell added: 'As an airfield we use an awful lot of electricity, and we are very keen to reduce our carbon footprint.

'This will save us money, tens of thousands of pounds a year in the long-term, after we have paid for the project in the next few years.

'There are also other benefits with LED lighting. You don't get the high frequency flicker that you get with fluorescent tubes, and that can cause headaches if you spend a lot of time under them.

'By saving money it will also be another step towards putting the airport on a stable footing to offset the losses we make during the quieter winter months. That extra money could also be used to develop our new electric tugs on the aprons.'

What energy efficient scheme are introducing to your workplace or home? Call reporter David Bale on 01603 772427 or email david.bale2@archant.co.uk