To reduce its CO2 emissions, Formula 1 is investing in sustainable aviation fuel

Formula 1 takes a key step towards net zero emissions by 2030 by investing in Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF). In partnership with DHL, this initiative aims to reduce emissions related to air transport, a major turning point that accelerates the transition to more environmentally friendly practices.

Reduce F1’s CO2 emissions

The first step of this investment focuses on the purchase of SAF in collaboration with DHL, the global logistics partner of Formula 1. The use of SAF will begin at the Australian Grand Prix next March, covering approximately 20% of the air freight flights for the 2024 season. This partnership will significantly reduce carbon emissions, with an estimated 80% reduction per flight compared to conventional aviation fuel.

Throughout the 2024 season, the use of SAF should enable more than 4,500 tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent (tCO2e) to be saved, a significant figure that underlines the direct impact of this decision on the carbon footprint of the championship.

The HALO will not be directly used in F1 cars.

If the approach seems commendable, to reduce the planet’s CO2 emissions and those of Formula 1, the approach still seems very timid. Indeed, Formula 1 will use the « book and claim model set up with the GoGreen Plus service from DHL to source SAF. This system allows reserving the amount of fuel needed to reduce its CO2 emissions, which is then added to the global supply chain. Therefore, SAF will not be directly used by Formula 1’s cargo planes, as it is integrated into other commercial flights, ensuring complete traceability and verified emission reductions that Formula 1 can include in its carbon footprint.

There are several reasons for this. Some aircraft engines are not yet perfectly suited to this type of fuel, but also and above all, the quantity currently produced in the world is far too low to ensure a supply anywhere in the world.

Ellen Jones, head of ESG at Formula 1, highlighted the importance of this initiative in their statement: « Formula 1 has always been at the forefront of innovation, and our initial investment in sustainable aviation fuel demonstrates our commitment to achieving net zero emissions by 2030. SAF is just the latest step for the company and underscores how alternative fuels, on and off the track, can significantly reduce carbon emissions. »

It should indeed be noted that the production and the low quantity of fuel still being produced make this product much more expensive than kerosene. KLM estimates that it costs 3 to 4 times more.

Objective 100% sustainable

The introduction of SAF is only a part of Formula 1’s overall commitment to sustainability, as starting from 2026, all F1 cars will use 100% sustainable fuel. In parallel, lower categories such as F2 and F3 will reach this goal as soon as next season, having already integrated 55% sustainable fuel in 2023 through a partnership with Aramco.

Outside the track, other initiatives are being implemented, such as the use of biofuel trucks for European Grand Prix events. Key infrastructures such as the paddock or pit lane are powered by low-carbon energy, reducing local emissions by over 90%.

Paul Fowler, Head of Motorsport Logistics at DHL, said: “Our longstanding partnership with Formula 1 is based on a shared passion for innovation and excellence. […] We strive to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and make motorsport more sustainable at every stage we go through.”

With innovations both on the track, in the paddocks, and in the air, the championship continues to establish itself as a key player in the transition to a greener and more environmentally friendly motorsport.