Formula 1 has made significant strides toward achieving its goal of net zero carbon emissions by 2030, having reduced its carbon footprint by 26% over the past seven years. According to a recent report, the sport’s total carbon emissions were 168,720 tCO2e at the end of 2024, a decline from 228,793 tCO2e recorded in 2018. These figures highlight ongoing efforts under the F1 net zero carbon emissions 2030 campaign, which seeks to halve absolute carbon emissions compared to 2018 levels.
Since announcing a 13% reduction between 2018 and 2022, the championship has accelerated its environmental initiatives, all while experiencing record growth in popularity and event scale.
Upcoming Changes to Boost Sustainability and Innovation in 2026
Formula 1 is preparing for a pivotal year in 2026, featuring major regulatory changes that will reshape car chassis and engine designs. Crucially, 2026 will also mark the introduction of sustainable fuel across all F1 cars. This innovation not only signifies a leap for the sport but also presents opportunities for broader adoption of sustainable fuels in road vehicles and other modes of transport.
F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali emphasized the sport’s commitment, stating,
“We are strongly committed to achieving Net Zero by 2030. It is a concrete goal, already visible in the significant reduction of our sport’s carbon footprint.”
He added,
“While continuing to grow globally, we have shown that sustainable development is possible and that the strategies we have adopted are yielding tangible results.”
How Formula 1 Has Achieved Carbon Reductions Despite Growth
The reduction in F1’s carbon footprint is particularly notable given the expansion of the calendar to a record 24 grands prix annually and a rise in race attendance by 2.5 million from 2018 to 2024. Without operational adjustments, emissions would have increased by 10% over this period.
To offset growth-related emissions, factories have transitioned to renewable energy, achieving a 59% decrease in carbon output. Additionally, travel emissions dropped by 25% as a result of enhanced remote working policies. Event operations have also benefited from a 12% reduction in emissions through greater use of sustainable energy sources, while logistics emissions fell by 9%, thanks in part to the deployment of more efficient Boeing 777F freighter aircraft and expanded biofuel use for freight trucks across Europe.
Commitment Across All Levels of the Sport
Ellen Jones, F1’s Head of Energy, Sustainability and Governance, attributed the progress to the collective efforts within the sport. She said,
“Today’s results are the product of years of hard work across the sport. All areas have been tasked with operating more sustainably, and it is through this sport-wide engagement and delivery that we are able to achieve such significant emission reductions.”
Jones also expressed optimism about the future, noting,
“Looking ahead, we have a clear plan to meet our commitments and to further demonstrate how growth can be positive for both sustainability and sporting outcomes.”
The Role of Innovation in Balancing Performance and Sustainability
Innovation remains at the core of Formula 1’s identity, driving progress not only within the sport but also beyond it. Domenicali highlighted this by saying,
“Formula 1 has always been synonymous with innovation and the desire to improve. Once again, this mentality has allowed us to make important progress, not only for those who work in this world, but also for society as a whole.”
Looking to the future, the introduction of advanced sustainable fuels is a key development. Domenicali added,
“We will continue to pursue our projects and next year we will introduce new actions, such as the use of advanced sustainable fuels in all Formula 1 cars, a step that also opens up significant opportunities for road cars and other means of transport.”
He concluded,
“We are proud of what we have achieved so far and remain determined to continue on this path.”
What Lies Ahead for Formula 1’s Sustainability Journey
Formula 1’s ongoing commitment to reducing its environmental impact demonstrates that it is possible to combine growth and sustainability effectively. With upcoming regulatory changes in 2026 and the full adoption of sustainable fuels, the sport aims to accelerate progress toward its net zero carbon emissions by 2030 target.
Jones summarized the sport’s unique position:
“Formula 1 is uniquely placed to show that performance and sustainability can support one another, and I look forward to seeing the impact of initiatives already announced – such as changes to our race calendar from 2026 – as well as those yet to come, to help us deliver on our goals and beyond.”
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Is number 13 banned in F1?
A. Yes, drivers can choose the number 13. When Formula 1 introduced permanent numbers in 2014, Pastor Maldonado picked it. Although some cultures see 13 as unlucky, F1 lets drivers decide.
Q. Which F1 driver has ADHD?
A. Lewis Hamilton, born in 1985, is from Britain and races in Formula One. He currently drives for Mercedes and has previously raced for McLaren. He openly talks about his experiences with ADHD and explores his various hobbies and interests.
Q. Is 69 allowed in F1?
A. Picking a number for F1 drivers: Every F1 driver can select a permanent number from 2 to 99, except for 17, for their entire racing career.
Q. Which F1 drivers have ADHD?
A. Lewis Hamilton, born in 1985, is a British race car driver in Formula One. He races for the Mercedes team but has also driven for McLaren. Hamilton openly talks about living with ADHD and shares his various interests and passions.