Formula 1 hopes to achieve carbon neutrality by 2030

Motor sports sometimes have a bad reputation regarding their polluting and environmentally dangerous side. Although Formula 1 cars are absolutely not responsible for the majority of CO2 emissions, the main objective remains to minimize the polluting emissions of these single-seaters as much as possible.

Since 2014, with the introduction of mandatory hybrid systems in the premier category, the trend towards eco-responsibility in Formula 1 has only grown. Given the current global context, it seems that Formula 1 wants to position itself as a flagship for a greener automotive industry.

Among the measures presented by the FIA, two of them stand out. The first one concerns the optimization of logistics in order to minimize the use of container ships and cargo planes. With an increasingly busy schedule, Formula 1 must better organize itself to optimize its logistics and reduce the associated CO2 emissions. Currently, logistics account for 45% of polluting emissions, according to a report by the FOM.

A greener engine by 2026

The next revolution in Formula 1 is scheduled for 2026 with the introduction of new regulations regarding the engines. No clear project is currently being put on the table, but one thing is already confirmed: the engine will remain at least partially thermal and powered by renewable synthetic fuel.

Unnoticed information in 2022, the fuel for single-seat racing cars now includes 10% biofuel in the form of ethanol, which helps reduce the cars’ carbon footprint. Indeed, in order to produce this ethanol, large quantities of sugar beets and sugarcane are used, allowing for the use of CO2 through photosynthesis to ultimately produce this biofuel.

Formula 1 will be able to rely on its partnership with the oil company Aramco (responsible for approximately 5% of CO2 emissions worldwide, and estimated at 28 billion tonnes of CO2 by 2030) to help achieve its long-term goals.