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Formula One has announced major plans to slash its carbon footprint to net-zero by 2030, and have sustainable products used at all Grand Prix events by 2025.
F1 bosses – as well as the sport’s governing body the FIA – believe this goal is achievable, despite plans for F1 to hold a record 22 races next year, and ambitions to increase that to 25 per year by the next decade.
Strategy
The strategy to cut emissions, which will include operations and logistics as well as on-track activity, is largely based on the introduction of a net-zero carbon hybrid power unit in cars.
In addition, offices, factories, and other facilities will be powered using entirely renewable energy.
Single-use plastics will be banned from all F1 Grand Prix events, with waste being reused, recycled or composted in a bid to hit the 2025 sustainability target.
Sustainability strategy
“Few people know that the current F1 hybrid power unit is the most efficient in the world, delivering more power using less fuel, and hence CO2, than any other car,” said Chase Carey, the chairman and chief executive of Formula One.
“We believe F1 can continue to be a leader for the auto industry, and work with the energy and automotive sector, to deliver the world’s first net-zero carbon hybrid internal combustion engine that hugely reduces carbon emissions around the world.
“In launching F1’s first-ever sustainability strategy, we recognize the critical role that all organizations must play in tackling this global issue.
“By leveraging the immense talent, passion and drive for innovation held by all members of the F1 community, we hope to make a significant positive impact on the environment and communities in which we operate.”
Formula 1® announces plan to be Net Zero Carbon by 2030 pic.twitter.com/IYt7Kf5mzf
— F1 Media (@F1Media) November 12, 2019
Benefits for society
FIA president, Jean Todt, added: “Our commitment to global environmental protection is crucial. It is not only very encouraging for the future of motorsport, but it could also have strong benefits for society as a whole.
“With the involvement of the teams, drivers, F1’s numerous stakeholders, and crucially the millions of fans around the world, the FIA and Formula One are committed to driving development and ensuring motorsport grows as a laboratory for environmentally beneficial innovations.”
Lewis Hamilton
Six-time F1 champion Lewis Hamilton has taken major steps towards becoming more sustainable in recent times, including adopting a plant-based diet, ditching plastic, and selling his private jet.
Revealing his personal plans to become carbon neutral earlier this year, he said: “I don’t allow anyone in my office, but also within my household to buy any plastics, I want everything recyclable, down to deodorant and toothbrushes.
“I sold my plane over a year ago. I fly a lot less now. I’m trying to fly less through the year, I’m mostly flying commercial, so that’s been a big change in my habits. I’ve avoided trips if I didn’t need to do it. I have just been in the UK with family in Bedfordshire instead of going on holiday. I’ve changed my diet, which is quite a drastic difference. I also have a new electric Smart car and have sold several of my cars.
“I’m constantly making changes but it’s not a quick fix but I feel positive that I’m making those changes, and I’m encouraging people around me.”
