The net zero commitment
In 2019, Formula 1 announced its commitment to becoming net zero by 2030. The goal was ambitious: a sport that ships equipment across five continents, hosts races in over 20 countries, and generates millions of tons of carbon emissions each year would become carbon neutral within a decade.
The biggest sources of emissions
F1's carbon footprint comes from several major sources:
- Logistics: Shipping cars, equipment, and personnel across the globe accounts for the largest share of emissions.
- Events: Building temporary infrastructure (paddocks, grandstands, hospitality units) for each race generates significant waste and emissions.
- Power units: While F1 engines are among the most efficient in the world, the fuel they burn still generates carbon emissions.
- Travel: The movement of teams, media, and fans to each race adds to the total footprint.
What F1 is doing about it
Sustainable aviation fuel: F1 has committed to using 100% sustainable fuel in its power units by 2026. This is one of the most significant changes in the sport's history, and it will serve as a proving ground for sustainable fuel technology that can be applied to road cars.
Optimized logistics: FOM has restructured the race calendar to minimize travel distances. European races are grouped together, flyaway races are sequenced geographically, and equipment is shipped more efficiently.
Sustainable events: Races are increasingly built with sustainability in mind. Temporary infrastructure is being replaced with reusable systems, waste is being recycled, and renewable energy is being used to power event operations.
Team initiatives: Teams are also taking action. McLaren has built one of the most sustainable factories in motorsport. Mercedes has committed to zero waste to landfill. Ferrari has invested in renewable energy for its Maranello facility.
The 2026 milestone
The 2026 power unit regulations are a critical part of F1's sustainability journey. The new engines will run on 100% sustainable fuel, and the increased electrical component will reduce the overall fuel consumption. This is not just about F1 — it is about demonstrating that high-performance engines can run on sustainable fuels, a technology that can be applied to the billions of road cars worldwide.