The Broads Authority has launched its Green Tourism Business Scheme (GTBS).

The initiative, which rewards businesses for being environmentally friendly, is one the largest of its kind in the UK.

The Broads Authority invited local businesses to take part in the initiative and work towards a set of criteria to give them eco-friendly status.

GTBS was carried out in the Broads by Perth-based Green Business UK as part of a £23,000 ‘Greening the Park’ project.

It received a grant of £13,000 from the Broads Authority’s Sustainable Development Fund to pay for the auditing and assessment of 15 businesses, produce the first National Park Green Guidance handbook and stage two seminars for Broads tourism businesses later this year.

The Broads Authority itself provided £5,000 and Green Business UK £4,000.

GTBS founder Andrea Nicholas said: “Members of the scheme are visited by environmental auditors once every two years and graded against a set of 120 social, environmental and economic criteria including energy, waste, water, transport and wildlife.

“All members are making a contribution to reducing their environmental footprint and many have achieved significant reductions in energy, waste and water costs, improved staff awareness and increased business through the promotion of their green commitment.”

The certified businesses are given a GTBS award in recognition of their efforts.

So far, nine companies in the area have been given the accolade, including the Ivy House Country Hotel and The OId Rectory Hotel.