Still in its quest to achieve carbon neutrality in 2030, F1 has announced another brand innovation: the use of more ecological fuels for air freight.
The latter is used more and more, since European races are increasingly rare (this is a great contradiction of the FOM: reduce emissions but expand geographically and lengthen the calendar).
To resolve this contradiction, the miracle solution would therefore be these famous carbon-neutral fuels. Formula 1 has therefore rightly announced that it “is expanding its investment in sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) through a new program developed with global partner Qatar Airways. »
Another carbon emissions reduction program is planned in parallel with DHL, still on air fuel.
Thanks to these two initiatives, F1 announces that it “will reduce associated emissions by more than 8,000 tCO2e (tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent), an approximate 19% reduction in related emissions – compared to traditional aviation fuel – for the charter air cargo program” over the space of a season.
By using more (but not yet 100%) sustainable fuel for aviation, F1 is improving its green image… and participating in an operation that some will describe as 'greenwashing' for Qatar Airways.
The agreement makes Formula 1 the first member of Qatar Airways' sustainable aviation fuel program.
“Sustainable fuel demonstrates Formula 1’s continued shift towards alternative fuels in all aspects of the sport” notes with relish the FOM. “On the track, cars will use 100% advanced sustainable fuel from 2026, with F2 and F3 reaching this standard from next season, having been at 55% since the start of 2023. Safety and medical cars from The FIA also currently uses 40% advanced sustainable fuel. »
In Europe, freight has already been provided by trucks powered by biofuels since 2023.
Ellen Jones, Formula 1's head of environment and sustainability, commented on this announcement:
“Today’s investment is the next step in our alternative fuels strategy, which is essential to achieving our Net Zero 2030 goal.”
“Through collaboration with our teams, the FIA and our partners, we are delivering on our promises to reduce the sport’s carbon emissions and advance technologies that can have an impact beyond Formula 1.”
“This is the latest example of how the sport’s stakeholders are aligning with our vision of a more sustainable F1, which we welcome. »
