British Airways (BA) has announced plans to begin using more sustainable fuel by 2014.

The carrier is launching a plant for the development of more environmentally friendly fuel through a partnership with the Solena Group.

Waste materials and biomass are to be converted into jet fuel at the new plant, which is likely to be located on a site in east London.

BA has signed a letter of intent indicating that the company will purchase all the fuel produced at the plant.

It is thought that the use of this 'green' fuel will help BA reach its target of reducing carbon emissions by 50% over the next 40 years.

BA chief executive Willie Walsh said: 'We believe it will lead to the production of a real sustainable alternative to jet kerosene.

'We are absolutely determined to reduce our impact on climate change and are proud to lead the way on aviation's environmental initiatives.'