Driving Towards a Sustainable Future: F1 Road to Net Zero Carbon Emissions
The Ambitious Plan to Achieve Net Zero Carbon Emissions by 2030 and Propel Formula 1 into the Era of 100% Sustainable Fuels
In 2019, Formula 1 embarked on one of the greatest challenges in motorsports: achieving Net Zero Carbon emissions by 2030, with a major milestone set for 2026 to transition to 100% sustainable fuels. The question remains: How will they accomplish this ambitious goal?
Upon reviewing environmental reports, F1 is projected to produce approximately 256,000 tonnes of CO2 emissions in a single season. Contrary to popular belief, only a small portion of these emissions directly come from F1 cars, with logistics and travel accounting for about 73% of the total, while the power units contribute just 0.7%.
Undoubtedly, the task of transporting 10 teams, along with their equipment and tires, to 23 Grand Prix events in different countries is daunting.
To meet the 2030 deadline, the support and commitment of partners and stakeholders have been and continue to be crucial. The Target to Net Zero 2030 now influences every decision involving F1.
Initial measures include reducing single-use plastics within the paddock and across circuit venues, as well as implementing solar panels at locations like Circuit de Catalunya and the Sakhir International Circuit, which now operate on 100% renewable energy. Additionally, F1’s offices have transitioned to 100% renewable energy, marking the first steps of the overarching plan.
F1 has been working diligently with its main partner DHL to address logistics, including the recent addition of 18 new biofuel-powered trucks for European races, reducing the carbon footprint by 60%. Further efforts are underway to develop more sustainable transportation methods. Optimizing the race calendar is also considered to promote sustainable travel, such as grouping all US races together and adopting a similar approach in Europe.
But what about F1 cars? While emissions are not the primary focus, there is still room for improvement. F1 power units are already renowned as the most efficient in the world, delivering more power using less fuel compared to conventional cars. However, starting from 2026, these advancements will be further enhanced as the target is to utilize 100% sustainable fuels. This holds great significance as F1 car developments set a precedent for the rest of the world, with these fuels designed to be compatible with the majority of the nearly two billion cars on the planet.
“F1 is taking a leadership and pioneering role for the good of society.” — F1 President and CEO Stefano Domenicali.
This week marks an important milestone as all 10 Formula 1 teams have achieved the FIA Three-Star Environmental Accreditation, the highest level of recognition for environmental sustainability from the sport’s governing body. Formula 1 becomes the world’s first motorsport championship with all member teams attaining this accreditation.
“While there is still much work to be done, our commitment remains unwavering as we strive to reach our targets, innovate sustainably, and set a positive example for the motorsport community and beyond.”- F1 President and CEO Stefano Domenicali.
Revving towards a greener future, Formula 1 is accelerating change, setting new standards, and driving sustainability on and off the track.
