Will Formula 1 withstand climate change? New challenge for Stefano Domenicali
01/02/2025 04:54 AM
In a world increasingly focused on environmental sustainability, Formula 1 stands out like a black sheep. The fact that 20 people burn fuel for entertainment, combined with extensive travel to move personnel, energy consumption, and other factors, results in a significant impact for this sport. Water bottles, dispensers, or Sebastian Vettel’s bee houses are not enough to change the situation. According to the BBC, Formula 1’s carbon footprint in 2018 was 256,000 tons of CO2, though this figure is declining thanks to certain measures taken in recent years (and it still compares reasonably well to figures from other sports).
So, how can motorsport survive the demands of our planet? Clearly, electric engines cannot be introduced, but Stefano Domenicali is confident that alternative strategies can be found. “We have made great progress without fear. We love what we do, and passion is a crucial element. We are listening to the demands for sustainability and are working to find the right technical solutions,” the Italian explained to the British website. One of these changes will be the introduction of 100% sustainable fuel in 2026. However, only 1% of the carbon dioxide produced by Formula 1 comes from the track. Therefore, as Ellen Jones, head of ecological transition for F1, says, progress must be sought in every action, even if it won't be 100% perfect.
Lando Norris also joined the conversation, explaining what teams are already doing to reduce their emissions: “Formula 1 is much more advanced than people think in terms of efficiency and environmental impact. We innovate in every way, but it would be great if more people knew about it. Our cars are the most efficient in the world, even if it's not obvious from the outside. Without the contribution of our technology, road cars would also be less efficient, and the planet would be worse off. It's everything surrounding the sport that isn't sustainable—all the air travel has a greater impact than the laps on the track during a weekend. We must continue to innovate, also helping the rest of the world. We don't race just to compete but also to make a positive impact.” – the McLaren driver pointed out.
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