Formula 1 bosses say they have developed an ‘ambitious’ sustainability plan to become net-zero carbon neutral by the 2030 season.
In their efforts to reduce the sport’s carbon footprint, Formula 1 has outlined a sustainability plan to reduce it to a ‘net-zero’ over the next ten years, in moves that will cover both the Formula 1 cars and races, as well as the operational side of the sport.
F1 says they will be using their technological innovation to work together with the FIA, the teams, promoters and backers to develop and implement this, with carbon reduction projects beginning with immediate effect.
Citing the sport’s innovation, they say Formula 1’s global platform has already accelerated progress in some areas. This includes the sport’s contentious hybrid power units – engines that have vastly improved efficiency and fuel economy, but have divided opinion due to their slightly undramatic sound and complicated energy recovery systems. F1 says these engines present a ‘tremendous opportunity to deliver a net-zero carbon hybrid power unit’, as over a billion road cars in the world still use combustion engine technology.
Aside from the cars, the plan is to include a move to more efficient logistics and travel, as well as 100% renewably powered facilities, factories and offices.
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By 2025, you won’t find single-use plastics in use at a Grand Prix, with sustainable materials being used at every event, while all waste within Formula 1 will be re-used, recycled or composted.
“Over its 70-year history, F1 has pioneered numerous technologies and innovations that have positively contributed to society and helped to combat carbon emissions.” said F1’s Chairman and CEO Chase Carey.
“From ground-breaking aerodynamics to improved brake designs, the progress led by F1 teams has benefited hundreds of millions of cars on the road today. 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. 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 recognise the critical role that all organisations 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. The actions we are putting in place from today will reduce our carbon footprint and ensure we are net zero carbon by 2030.”
More details on this plan can be read on the Formula 1 corporate website.
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