Formula 1 has announced their ambitious sustainability programme to become net zero by 2030.

The new initiative will start immediately with a number of carbon reducing projects to help towards Formula 1 on the road to becoming a sustainable sport.

Formula 1 has a global platform to deliver technologies that reduce and eliminate carbon emissions from the current internal combustion engine (ICE).

The current F1 hybrid power unit, delivering more power using less fuel than any other car, combined with advanced sustainable fuels and energy recovery systems presents a tremendous opportunity to deliver a net-zero carbon hybrid power unit.  With over 1 billion of the 1.1 billion vehicles in the world powered by ICEs, it has the potential to reduce carbon emissions globally.

Chase Carey, Chairman, and CEO of Formula 1, said: “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.”

Not only will Formula 1 focus on reducing emissions of their cars, but they will also aim to run all their operation facilities on 100 per cent renewable energy.

To align with a circular economy, by 2025, Formula 1 will also ensure all events are sustainable by eliminating all use of single-use plastics and recycling all waste.

Jean Todt, President of the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA), said: “Our commitment to global environmental protection is crucial. The FIA welcomes this Formula 1 initiative. It is not only very encouraging for the future of motorsport, but it could also have strong benefits for society as a whole. This strategy is in line with initiatives started some years ago by the FIA with the creation of the Environmental Accreditation Programme, more recently with the FIA Environment and Sustainability Commission, and researches on renewable racing fuel.”

Photograph: Artes Max