Formula 1 expands its investment in Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) through a new partnership with Qatar Airways, aiming for a 19% reduction in emissions in 2024 and to reach net-zero emissions by 2030.
Formula 1 (F1) has announced a major expansion of its investment in Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) through a new partnership with Qatar Airways. This move builds on F1’s previous collaboration with Global Logistics Partner DHL, creating a more comprehensive framework for F1 teams and the FIA to participate.
The combined investment in SAF for the 2024 season is expected to reduce emissions by over 8,000 tCO2e (tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent), which represents a 19% reduction compared to traditional aviation fuel. This is part of F1's broader strategy to achieve net-zero emissions by 2030, which includes a 50% reduction in emissions from 2018 levels.
The partnership with Qatar Airways also marks F1’s membership in the airline's SAF program, a significant step in Qatar Airways’ sustainability journey. In 2024, Qatar Airways purchased additional SAF for its fleet, resulting in a reduction of 19,000 tCO2e.
In addition to SAF, F1 is taking multiple steps to reduce its carbon footprint. By 2026, all F1 cars will use 100% advanced sustainable fuel, and F2 and F3 will follow suit in 2025. Currently, the FIA Safety and Medical Cars use 40% sustainable fuel. Furthermore, biofuel-powered trucks have been used at European Grands Prix since 2023, with plans to cut emissions by over 90% in key operational areas at European races from 2025.
To further reduce its environmental impact, F1 is streamlining its race calendar and using regional hubs in Europe, the UAE, and the US to reduce the distance freight travels. The sport is also redesigning cargo containers for more efficient transportation, helping to cut emissions by 17%.
Ellen Jones, Head of ESG at F1, emphasized that this investment is crucial to achieving their Net Zero 2030 target. She added, “Through collaboration with our teams, the FIA, and our partners, we are delivering on our promises to drive down the sport’s carbon emissions and drive forward technologies that can have an impact beyond Formula 1.”
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