MOTORSPORT: F1 commits to ‘net-zero’ carbon footprint

Formula One has committed to achieving a net-zero carbon footprint by 2030, in part by delivering a net-zero carbon hybrid internal combustion engine.

In a move that has been lauded by drivers including Lewis Hamilton and Sebastian Vettel, the Liberty Media-owned championship will commence carbon reduction projects immediately, officials confirmed overnight.

The project coincides with the deployment of new technical regulations for Formula 1 from 2021, with claims sexier-looking cars like that pictured will produce better racing.

The carbon footprint of the sport at present is significant; a combination of on-track racing and the fact next year’s championship will involve transporting 10 teams to a record 22 grand prix events around the world.

Liberty Media chairman Chase Carey said the championship would continue with current V6 turbo hybrid engines in use since 2014, along with moving to ultra-efficient logistics along with 100 per cent renewably-powered offices, facilities and factories.

In addition, the sport has confirmed it incentivise greener transport options for fans to the races, ban single-use plastics, utilise sustainable materials and reuse or recycle all waste.

"We recognise the critical role that all organisations must play in tackling this global issue," said Carey.

"By leveraging the immense talent, passion and drive for innovation held by all members of the F1 community, we hope to make a significant positive impact on the environment and communities in which we operate.

"We believe F1 can continue to be a leader for the auto industry and work with the energy and automotive sector to deliver the world’s first net zero-carbon hybrid internal combustion engine," Carey added.

The move has received overwhelming support from current drivers, not least from six-time world champion Lewis Hamilton.

The Mercedes driver told reporters last month that he had sold his private jet, had banned single-use plastic from home and office and aimed to be carbon neutral by the end of this year.

"It is not the easiest because, yes, we are traveling around the world and we are racing Formula One cars. Our carbon footprint for sure is higher than the average homeowner that lives in the same city," Lewis said.

"But it doesn’t mean you should be afraid to speak out about things that can be for a positive change."

Hamilton’s sentiments were echoed by Ferrari’s Sebastian Vettel at the weekend. The German driver told Autosport that F1 had a responsibility to act on climate change.

"Formula 1 is a worldwide sport," Vettel told Autosport. "And a worldwide operating platform.

"So with all the facts that are available to us today, you cannot neglect what is happening in the world and ignore what is happening in the world.

"That would be just stupid.

"So it is fair to ask opinions and so on, and obviously a lot of people are following F1 and are inspired by F1, and I think F1 should do a lot more than what we're currently doing to set a course for the future.”

Vettel cited synthetic fuel as a potential area for technical development, even withstanding current challenges.

"If you're black and white [in approach] you say that it's bad what we do for the environment, because we drive around in cars and we burn fuel.

"Obviously, F1 has the opportunity to develop engine formulas, technologies and so on, that will help us, that will help mobility and transport in the future to make it more efficient, etc.

"At the moment we have a very efficient engine, but it's questionable how much of that efficiency will find its way onto the road.”