Formula 1 has long been seen as the pinnacle of motorsport. However, as the world increases its focus on environmental responsibility, the sport is looking to not just deliver the highest class of international racing but create a lasting, positive and sustainable future.

“Achieving net zero by 2030 is about consistent progress and taking meaningful steps toward efficiency. Over recent years, we’ve made significant changes, including optimising our calendar to reduce travel distances and implementing remote broadcasting to minimise cargo loads,” Ellen Jones, Head of Environment, Social and Governance (ESG) at Formula 1, stated.

“Now, we’re taking the next step by investing in more efficient modes of transportation, particularly through sustainable aviation fuel. SAF allows us to reduce associated carbon emissions by up to 80 percent, which is a significant figure. This matters not only for us as an organization but also as a global championship with a responsibility to lead by example,”

Partnerships are absolutely crucial to this. With all parties, Formula 1 has developed innovative solutions, piloted new technologies, and embraced incremental steps toward sustainability, embracing the spirit of innovation and collaboration that has been a cornerstone of the sport. 

“This is a message we need to communicate effectively, showcasing the real-world impact of our efforts and inspiring others to follow suit. Through partnerships, we’re not just implementing solutions; we’re driving global awareness and action for a more sustainable future,” Arjan Sissing, Head of Brand Marketing at DHL, added.

Years in the making

The progress within the sport so far includes a 13 percent reduction in Formula 1’s overall carbon footprint this year, compared to its 2018 baseline. Teams have reduced emissions in their factories by over 50 percent, and events like the Singapore Grand Prix have achieved 20 percent emission reductions by adopting technologies such as LED lighting.

This journey began about five years ago. For instance, DHL and Formula 1 transitioned to Boeing 777 aircraft from 747s, increasing efficiency by 17 percent. Last year, DHL replaced 19 European trucks with HVO Gen 2 biofuel-powered trucks, and this year, that number has grown to 37.

Now, with SAF powering 20 percent of flights, DHL have achieved an 80 percent emissions reduction. 

“Formula One’s global reach, combined with DHL’s scale, allows us to set a precedent for others. By showcasing our efforts, from incremental improvements to large-scale initiatives like SAF, we can inspire industries worldwide to adopt similar practices,” Paul Fowler, Vice President of Motorsport – Global at DHL, stated.

“The beauty of SAF is that it’s a drop-in technology, meaning it integrates seamlessly with existing systems, making it a quick and impactful solution.

“From an investment perspective, we’re collaborating closely with DHL. Currently, 20 percent of our fleet will operate on sustainable aviation fuel. The cost of SAF varies because it’s market-dependent and fluctuates annually,” Jones explained.

“Therefore, instead of focusing solely on financial figures, we emphasise the carbon savings achieved. For 2024, we anticipate reducing our carbon emissions by approximately 4,500 tonnes. As the partnership progresses, we aim to scale up these efforts.”

Growing calendar

With 2024 having been the longest calendar in Formula 1 history, featuring a record 24 scheduled races, it has become more critical than ever for the sport to explore investment in initiatives, seeing them as vital for sustainable growth.

Mobility—whether it’s fans travelling to races or everyday commutes—raises questions about environmentally friendly options. For logistics, sustainable aviation fuel is one part of the puzzle. Formula 1 has also taken steps to minimise air travel where possible. For example, remote broadcasting and regional hubs allow the sport to limit what needs to be transported by air. 

“Formula 1 works closely with local race promoters who handle year-round preparations to deliver exceptional events,” Jones stated. 

“They are deeply committed to minimising both their environmental and social impacts.

“From a sustainability perspective, race promoters are data-driven and proactive. For example, at night races, energy consumption is critical. 

“To address this, races, like Singapore, are committed to cutting carbon emissions by 50 percent by 2028 and are already 20 percent toward that goal. Initiatives include replacing lights with energy-efficient LEDs, which alone reduce energy consumption by 30 percent, and leveraging green tariffs, as well as utilising biofuels.”

“DHL is actively reducing its carbon footprint across operations. For instance, our buildings are being upgraded to achieve net-zero emissions. Ground logistics utilise advanced biofuels, such as second-generation HVO,” Fowler, stated. “Sustainable marine fuels are also part of our next phase.”

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