Development of a 100% sustainable fuel, slashing the use of single-use plastics, and reviewing travel and freight logistics – are just a few things Formula 1 as a sport is working on as part of its duty to be Net Zero Carbon by 2030. As part of a more expansive sustainability strategy, F1 set enterprising targets and has for three years been operating with the 10 teams, race promoters, partners, suppliers, broadcasters, and the FIA to reduce the sport’s carbon footprint.
Already F1 has downsized its carbon footprint through remote broadcast operations, which has allowed the company to reduce freight, while redesigned freight containers mean more efficient aircraft can be used to transport the equipment. F1 offices are currently employing 100% renewable energy, with the company earning the highest sustainability management accreditation (3*) granted by the FIA.
Following the triumphant opening, this season of E10 fuel – comprising 10% ethanol, which will reduce CO2 emissions overall – F1 is working with partner Aramco and all the significant fuel manufacturers in F1 to produce a 100% sustainable fuel to be oriented with a new engine formula in 2026. It will be a drop-in fuel, so-called because it can be employed in the same form in road cars in regular internal combustion engines. F1 will work closely with F2 and F3 to trial the sustainable fuels.
Looking ahead, there are plans to build future F1 calendars to improve freight and travel logistics so the sport is moving more efficiently around the world. Carbon reduction efforts for fans traveling to F1 events are being analyzed, while green travel arrangements will be assessed.
Recently, Mercedes announced that they will be investing in Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) as part of their dedication to reaching Net Zero by 2030. The team’s acquisition of Sustainable Aviation Fuels falls outside of the Formula 1 cost cap, covering as it does what’s known as ‘Scope 3’ emissions, which are those resulting from business travel, among other things. The multi-million dollar investment in fuels will form part of Mercedes’ drive to be Net Zero by 2030, as ascertained by the Science Based Targets Initiative.
