Logo of F1 – NetZero 2030. June 29, 2023. Formula 1 World Championship, Rd 10, Austrian Grand Prix, Spielberg, Austria, Preparation Day.
Formula 1 has revealed findings indicating that it is making good progress towards its Net Zero 2030 goal, with a 13 percent reduction in its carbon footprint between 2018 and 2022.
The initiative was established with the aim of halving F1’s carbon emissions 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 data from the most recent season is still being collected and analyzed, the latest update from F1, based on the 2022 season, reveals a 13 percent reduction compared to 2018.
However, F1 still has 37 percent remaining to reach its goal, 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 24 races 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 biofuel-powered trucks, resulting in an average 83 percent reduction in carbon emissions during European races.
In addition, F1, teams, race organizers, and partners have all transitioned to renewable energy sources and made adjustments to their operations to facilitate remote work.
“The transition 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, Head of Energy, Sustainability, and Governance at F1.
“Within the 2022 statistics, this reduction translates to a 56 percent decrease in emissions at 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 logistical demands, the F1 calendar has undergone revisions, such as moving the Japanese Grand Prix to a spring date alongside China in 2024.
“This change is significant because the calendar reflects our current freight model, where most emissions come from point-to-point air transport,” said Ellen Jones, Head of Energy, Sustainability, and Governance at F1.
“By reducing these distances, we can decrease our carbon footprint while also supporting technological innovations like biofuels, sustainable aviation fuel, and more.”
Although complete data from the previous season has not yet been released, there are several key findings from the past 12 months that highlight the significant progress being made.
For example, 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, the Austrian Grand Prix achieved over a 90 percent reduction in emissions in the pit area, paddock, and transmission compound by using renewable generators powered by biofuels.
In other news, the British Grand Prix at Silverstone was powered using completely different methods, incorporating 2,746 solar panels and HVO fuel in the generators.
Both Formula 2 and Formula 3 cars have tested running on 55 percent sustainable fuel as part of their preparations for F1’s transition to using 100 percent sustainable fuels by 2026.
However, 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 Three Star Environmental Certification from the FIA, with Jones expressing optimism that the series is on track to achieve its 50 percent reduction goal.
“We are definitely making progress towards achieving that goal, and the crucial components of our success can be found in the tests and initiatives described in the 2023 report,” commented Jones.
“This involves the continued adoption of alternative fuels in all aspects of our operations, from vehicles to air travel to on-site generators.
“It also involves the collective effort of engaging other people 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 longer to implement, is imagining what the operations of the future will look like.
“The first two aspects will start to materialize this year and gain momentum.
“The development of next-generation operations will take longer, as it involves complex technological advancements.”
The report concludes with an update on F1’s ongoing commitment to increasing diversity and inclusion, which included awarding scholarships to individuals from underrepresented backgrounds.
The inaugural F1 ACADEMY Discover Your Drive program also resulted in a substantial increase in the number of girls participating in grassroots motorsport.
© 2024
Soccer fans are eagerly awaiting the start of the new season. With the arrival of new players and coaches, expectations are high to see how the teams will perform. The championship promises to be exciting, with many thrilling games and fierce title battles.
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In addition to the big clubs, there are also those looking to surprise. Teams like Atlético-MG, Grêmio, and Internacional are strengthening and want to show that they can compete on equal terms with the favorites. It will be interesting to see how these teams will fare throughout the season.
Overall, the new season promises many thrills and fierce competitions. Fans are eager to see their teams in action and cheer for great victories. May the best team win and may football gift us with unforgettable moments.