F1 Logo – NetZero 2030. June 29, 2023. Formula 1 World Championship, Rd 10, Austrian Grand Prix, Spielberg, Austria, Preparation Day.
Formula 1 has unveiled findings that indicate it is making good progress towards its Net Zero 2030 goal, with a 13 percent decrease in its carbon footprint between 2018 and 2022.
The initiative was established with the aim of reducing F1’s carbon emissions by half compared to a baseline set in 2018, achieved through measures such as reducing travel, improving logistics, and implementing energy-saving practices at its facilities.
While the data from the most recent season is still being collected and analyzed, F1’s latest update, based on the 2022 season, reveals a 13 percent reduction compared to 2018.
However, F1 still has a remaining 37 percent to achieve its target, and the report outlines the steps the sport plans to take to fulfill this commitment by the set deadline of 2030.
The expansion of the calendar to a record-breaking 24 rounds now accounts for 49 percent of F1’s carbon footprint, but efforts are being made to mitigate this gradual increase.
Logistics partner DHL now operates a fleet of 18 trucks powered by biofuels, resulting in an average reduction of 83 percent in carbon emissions during the European rounds.
Additionally, F1, the teams, race organizers, and partners have all transitioned to renewable energy sources and made adjustments to their operations to facilitate remote working.
“The shift to renewable energy both at home and abroad is crucial for us and has been a major driver of the initial 13 percent reduction,” explained Ellen Jones, F1’s Head of Energy, Sustainability, and Governance.
“Within the 2022 statistics, this reduction translates to a 56 percent decrease in emissions across our factories and facilities. Looking ahead to 2023 and beyond, you can also see our increasing reliance on renewable energy sources outside of the UK.”
To address the logistical demands, the F1 calendar has undergone revisions, such as moving the Japanese Grand Prix to a Spring slot alongside China in 2024.
“This change is significant because the calendar reflects our current freight model, where the majority of emissions come from air freight traveling point to point,” said Ellen Jones, F1’s Head of Energy, Sustainability, and Governance.
“By reducing these distances, we can reduce our carbon footprint, while also supporting technological innovations such as biofuels, sustainable aviation fuel, and more.”
While the complete data from the previous season has not yet been released, there are several noteworthy findings from the past 12 months that highlight the significant progress being made.
For instance, there was a 25 percent increase, from 50 percent to 75 percent, in race organizers adopting renewable energy sources to power their events during 2023.
During a trial run, the Austrian Grand Prix achieved a reduction of over 90 percent in emissions within the pit lane, paddock, and broadcast compound by utilizing renewable generators powered by biofuels.
In other news, the British Grand Prix at Silverstone was energized using entirely different methods, incorporating 2,746 solar panels and HVO fuel in generators.
Both Formula 2 and 3 cars have experimented with running on 55 percent sustainable fuel as part of their preparations for F1’s transition to using 100 percent sustainable fuels by 2026.
However, the emissions produced by the entire field of 20 cars are expected to contribute less than one percent to F1’s overall carbon footprint.
During the previous season, F1 maintained its FIA Three-Star Environmental Accreditation, with Jones expressing optimism that the series is on track to achieve its 50 percent reduction target.
“We are definitely making progress towards reaching that goal, and the crucial components of our success can be found in the trials and initiatives outlined in the 2023 report,” Jones commented.
“It involves the continued adoption of alternative fuels throughout all aspects of our operations, from the vehicles to the air travel to the on-site generators.
“It also entails the collective effort of involving others in our journey. It’s one thing for all 10 teams to have individual solutions within the paddock.
“Significant savings can be achieved when a centralized solution is established, allowing everyone to work together.
“And finally, the third aspect, which will take the longest to implement, is envisioning what the future of operations will look like.
“The first two aspects will begin to materialize this year and will gain momentum.
“The development of next-generation operations will take more time, as it involves complex technological advancements.”
The report concludes with an update on F1’s ongoing commitment to enhancing diversity and inclusion, which has included the provision of scholarships for individuals from underrepresented backgrounds.
The inaugural F1 ACADEMY Discover Your Drive program has also resulted in a substantial increase in the number of girls participating in grassroots motorsport.