Formula 1 has committed to achieving Net Zero carbon emissions by 2030, a target encompassing all aspects of the sport’s operations. This ambitious goal was initially announced in 2019, setting a clear direction for environmental sustainability within motorsport.
The sport has made significant progress towards this objective, reporting substantial reductions in its carbon footprint over recent years. By the end of 2024, Formula 1 had achieved a 26% reduction in its carbon emissions compared to its 2018 baseline.
Formula 1’s overall carbon footprint and reduction targets
Formula 1 established a baseline carbon footprint of 228,793 tonnes of CO2 equivalent (tCO2e) in 2018. This figure serves as the benchmark against which all subsequent reductions are measured.
By the close of the 2024 season, the sport’s carbon footprint had decreased to 168,720 tCO2e, demonstrating a considerable reduction in absolute emissions. Further progress was reported by 2025, with emissions falling to 148,805 tCO2e, representing a 35% reduction from the 2018 baseline.
Formula 1 aims for a minimum 50% reduction in its own emissions compared to 2018 levels before considering any offsets for unavoidable emissions. This strategy underscores a focus on direct emission reductions across its global operations.
| Year | Carbon Footprint (tCO2e) | Reduction from 2018 Baseline |
|---|---|---|
| 2018 (Baseline) | 228,793 | 0% |
| 2024 | 168,720 | 26% |
| 2025 | 148,805 | 35% |
Breakdown of Formula 1’s emissions sources
The carbon footprint of Formula 1 is primarily driven by several key categories, with logistics and business travel being the largest contributors. In 2022, logistics accounted for approximately 49% of total emissions, while business travel made up 29%.
Event operations contributed 12% to the overall emissions in 2022, with factories and facilities also playing a role. The actual Formula 1 cars on track generate less than 1% of the sport’s total annual carbon output.
A more recent breakdown from 2024 indicates that logistics represented 37% of emissions, and team and staff travel accounted for 36%. Factories and facilities contributed 14%, while operations at circuits were responsible for 13% of emissions.
While Formula 1’s official reporting focuses on its operational footprint, external analyses suggest that spectator travel significantly increases the sport’s overall environmental impact. Including emissions from fans, the total carbon footprint can exceed one million tCO2e per season.
The 2026 power unit regulations and sustainable fuel
A transformative shift in Formula 1’s environmental strategy will occur in 2026 with the introduction of new power unit regulations and advanced sustainable fuels. These regulations mandate a near 50-50 split between electrical power and internal combustion power.
The internal combustion engines will run on 100% advanced sustainable fuel, marking a significant step towards decarbonization. This fuel is designed to be ‘drop-in’ capable, meaning it can be used in existing road cars without engine modifications, offering broader automotive industry benefits.
Advanced sustainable fuels are derived from non-food biomass, municipal waste, or Renewable Fuel of Non-Biological Origin (RFNBO). These sources include agricultural byproducts like rice husks, used cooking oil, or synthetic fuels produced using renewable electricity and captured carbon dioxide.
The sustainable fuel developed for the 2026 regulations is engineered to deliver a minimum of 65% greenhouse gas savings compared to fossil-derived gasoline. This aligns with the latest EU Renewable Energy Directive for the transport sector.
Logistics, travel, and event operations initiatives
Formula 1 has implemented various initiatives to reduce emissions across its logistics, business travel, and event operations. A key strategy involves shifting freight transportation from air to sea routes and establishing regional hubs.
By 2030, more than 50% of Formula 1’s broadcast and related freight is projected to be moved by sea transport, significantly reducing air freight emissions. The sport has also invested in sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) and sustainable maritime fuel to further lower transport-related emissions.
DHL, Formula 1’s logistics partner, has doubled its fleet of biofuel trucks, which run on HVO100 drop-in fuel, for European races. These trucks achieve an average of 83% reduction in carbon emissions compared to diesel counterparts.
Remote broadcast operations have been expanded, contributing to a reduction in travel emissions for personnel. Additionally, alternative energy systems, such as hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO), solar power, and battery storage solutions, have been introduced at all European events.
The broader impact of Formula 1’s sustainability efforts
Formula 1’s commitment to sustainability extends beyond race weekends to its factories, facilities, and offices. These areas have seen a substantial 64% reduction in emissions since 2018, largely due to the transition to renewable energy sources.
The sport’s efforts are not only aimed at its own footprint but also at inspiring wider change within the automotive industry. The development of advanced sustainable fuels for Formula 1 cars has implications for road car technology, promoting cleaner fuel alternatives globally.
Despite the significant progress, the governing body, the FIA, reported a carbon footprint of 28,337 tCO2e in 2025, an increase of approximately 30% from its 2022 baseline. The FIA has committed to reducing its own operational emissions by 50% by 2030.
Formula 1’s sustainability strategy is a collaborative effort involving teams, partners, promoters, and the FIA. This collective approach is important for achieving the Net Zero by 2030 target amidst the sport’s continued global growth and expanding calendar.
