Airport in Bid to Protect Rainforest

BIRMINGHAM International Airport has stumped up pounds 20,000 to protect 180 acres of endangered rainforest in Brazil.

The airport has teamed up with charity Cool Earth to save more than 21,000 mature trees and saplings.

That will lock up nearly 50,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide, offsetting the carbon footprint of the airport’s buildings for the last two years.

John Morris, the airport’s head of community affairs, said: “Overall, aviation contributes two per cent of the world’s CO2; however it’s committed to finding ways to mitigate its operations.”

By protecting the rainforest region, called Democracia, for at least 25 years the airport is helping to save 16 kinds of endangered animal, 322 types of plant and more than 11,000 species of insect.

The airport’s sponsorship also includes buying classroom equipment, solarpowered internet and a boat for a Escola Estadual school in the heart of the Amazon.

“We’re proud of this partnership and hope it continues to grow from strength to strength,” said Mr Morris.

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