A few weeks ago, Lewis Hamilton declared himself overwhelmed by environmental issues. He took the opportunity to promote his vegan diet and urged his fan base to do the same. Fernando Alonso ironically pointed out that an F1 driver takes a plane about 200 times a year to travel the world…<\/p>\n
F1 must nevertheless contribute to the efforts, if only for the image it projects of itself and the companies that choose to invest in it. While manufacturers are rushing to Formula E with (for now still) reasonable budgets and a seemingly greener image, F1 must prove that it retains its societal interest, in terms of technological innovations.<\/p>\n
Chase Carey, the CEO of F1, thus reminded us of the advancements for which the sport has served as a laboratory over the decades: \u00ab Over its 70-year history, F1 has pioneered many technologies and innovations that have positively contributed to society and helped reduce CO2 emissions. From radical aerodynamics to brake design, the progress made by F1 teams has benefited hundreds of millions of cars on the road today. \u00bb<\/p>\n
The businessman thus highlights the contribution of hybrid technology in race cars, which has significantly reduced vehicle consumption. The only hitch in this corporate communication is that the emissions from the 20 cars on track account for only 0.7% of the total CO2 emissions generated by F1. By far, the largest source of emissions (45% of the total) is related to air, sea, and road freight used to transport team equipment around the world, starting with the imposing motorhomes available at all European races. The second largest source of emissions (28% of the total) comes from personnel travel to the races, whether from teams, the organization, sponsors, or journalists.<\/p>\n
The most commonly used method for this type of campaign aiming to achieve an organization’s carbon neutrality is to plant trees capable of absorbing the CO2 generated. However, reducing emissions remains a goal. That’s why the first intermediate objective is for all races to be considered sustainable by 2025. Specifically, this means that the use of single-use plastic containers will be banned. When we see what the organizers in Baku had planned this year, it indeed seems that the path will be longer for some events than for others.<\/p>\n
\nGiven the sheer number of flights I take I can’t claim to be any sort of practicing eco warrior, but I’m getting very conscious of single use plastics. And while I’m sure we’re all very appreciative that food’s been put on for the media, this just seems utterly obscene. pic.twitter.com\/dzKoacQro1<\/a><\/p>\n
\u2014 Will Buxton (@wbuxtonofficial) April 25, 2019<\/a><\/p><\/blockquote>\n