Formula 1 has just announced its first sustainability campaign aimed to be achieved by 2030. The steps to achieving such goals is as follows, eliminating both the cars carbon footprint and that of any on-track events, moving towards more efficient logistical elements of travel and using 100% renewably powered offices, factories and facilities.
Formula 1 has forever been the pinnacle of motor sports with huge advances in technology, aerodynamics, safety and many more achievements. With the current state and ethos of todays world and society, Formula 1 could simply not carry on burning fuel and tyres all for the spirit of entertainment. Therefore, this initiative is in the hopes of making Formula 1 more sustainable as well as encouraging those around it.
With the goal of net zero emissions, otherwise known as being carbon neutral, the cars in Formula 1 will not be carbon free, instead the whole entity of Formula 1 will work together to ensure the emissions released are balanced out. The intention of these plans is to rid Formula 1's carbon footprint from activities on race weekends and travel to and from events, for both equipment and team personnel.
Formula 1 has said it will, "move to ultra-efficient logistics and travel and 100% renewably powered offices, facilities and factories" along will offset emissions that are essential to the running of F1 and cannot be reduced or cut.
With Formula 1 becoming greener, some may ask why Formula 1 isn't just taking the leap and becoming a totally electric series? The answer to that one is simple... Formula E. 2014 saw the launch of the Formula E series, a racing series that is completely electric, along with their inaugural race came a legal document that stated no other series could become fully electric, granted they can continue adapting but never be 100% electric.
Lewis Hamilton has been vocal throughout this global epidemic, actively speaking out about his plant-based diet and his aims of being carbon-neutral by the end of 2019. The six time World Champion is working alongside Mercedes making relevant changes. The 34 year old is committed to such pledges after he sold his personal private jet last year in his aim to reduce flying as much as possible. Moreover, Hamilton has also managed to incorporate "Just Water" into Mercedes, water that is bottled in cartons rather than single-use plastics, a small change that makes a big difference.
Although, Hamilton has received a mountain of criticism after his occupation requires him to burn through tyres and fuels, as well as travel around the globe. But this hasn't deterred the Brit. Sebastian Vettel backed his rival, "It is very difficult for us to have acceptance from the outside because we don't have the smallest carbon footprint. The races are around the world and we do have to travel. But I feel F1 should do more. It is a worldwide operating platform and we should send a more positive message."
Formula 1's initiative may not be an instant change and happen overnight, but the direction the sport is taking is definitely the right one.
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