Formula 1® invests in sustainable aviation fuel as part of net zero strategy

Credit: Formula 1®

Formula 1® (F1) has announced its first major investment in sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) as part of its logistics strategy aimed at achieving net zero carbon emissions by 2030. The initial phase of this investment began in March 2024, with SAF being used for air cargo transport to and from flyaway races, starting with the Australian Grand Prix. This investment currently covers approximately 20% of F1’s cargo flights for the season.

SAF is estimated to deliver an 80% reduction in carbon emissions per flight, leading to an expected savings of over 4,500 tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent (tCO2e) throughout the 2024 season, compared to traditional aviation fuel.

Formula 1 is purchasing SAF through DHL, its global logistics partner, using a ‘book and claim’ system. Under this model, the SAF is not directly used in F1’s cargo flights, but instead added to the fuel supply chain where SAF is available. This allows F1 to claim carbon reductions from the overall supply chain, verified through DHL’s GoGreen Plus service. This approach supports both immediate emissions reductions and the growth of the SAF market for the future.

Ellen Jones, Head of ESG at Formula 1, said: “Formula 1 has always been at the forefront of innovation, and our early stage investment in sustainable aviation fuel is a testament to our dedication to deliver on our net zero by 2030 commitment. SAF is just the latest step for the business, and underscores how alternative fuels both on and off track can materially reduce carbon emissions. This delivery of our sustainability strategy is only made possible through coordinated actions across our sport.”

Paul Fowler, Head of Motorsports Logistics at DHL, said: “With 40 years of expertise in motorsports logistics, we are focused on cutting down greenhouse gas emissions and making motorsport more sustainable with every step we take.”

This investment in SAF is one component of F1’s broader sustainability strategy. By 2026, all F1 cars will run on 100% sustainable fuel, with F2 and F3 racing to achieve the same by 2025. Additionally, European Grands Prix events already use biofuel-powered trucks, and low-carbon power solutions will soon be applied to key areas of all European races, reducing emissions by over 90%.