Formula 1 says it is on track to meet its goal of net zero carbon emissions by 2030, according to a new internal report.
The racing body says it has reduced carbon emissions by 26% from 2018 levels.
It defines net zero as reducing its emissions by 50% from 2018 levels, and offsetting the remaining emissions with “credible” programs.
However, international researchers have accused F1 of “greenwashing” to downplay the sport's “mammoth carbon footprint.”
Context
In 2019, Formula 1 announced a 2030 net-zero emissions target.
The sustainability strategy includes a commitment by every team to race with 100% renewable fuel by 2026.
The sports annual calendar features 24 races in 21 countries, across five continents.
Logistics and travel account for 73% of F1's total emissions. This includes the impacts of truck and plane freight (of cars and equipment) as well as driver, teams, and F1 personnel travel.
Report
Since 2018, F1 has reduced emissions across four main areas: factories and facilities, travel, logistics and event operations — according to an internal sustainability report.
For example, transitioning to renewable energy sources at F1 factories and facilities.
The body said 80% of F1 events are now powered by alternative energy sources, including solar panels.
It noted ongoing sustainability improvements despite “a period of significant growth for the sport”.
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Transport
F1 also noted efforts to reduce travel emissions caused by the transport of drivers, teams, cars and equipment during the race season.
The body claims travel emissions are down 25% from 2018 levels.
However, it still accounts for more than a third of the sport’s overall emissions.
The report cited a 9% reduction in logistics emissions (including freight) since 2018. Logistical operations still make up 37% of F1 emissions.
Greenwashing
International researchers have accused F1 of using “greenwashing rhetoric” to account for the sport’s “mammoth carbon footprint.”
2024 findings published in the Annals of Leisure Research Journal called sustainability efforts “negligible,” and described the expanding F1 calendar as counteractive to the sport’s stated goals.
Edith Cowan University researchers have noted that efforts to limit F1 emissions must be wide-ranging, and that the cars themselves make up less than 1% of the sport’s emissions.
Next steps
According to F1's 2025 sustainability update, “every part of the sport has undergone meaningful change since 2018,” as it works towards it 2030 target.
F1 President Stefano Domenicali said the body is focused on the introduction of “advanced sustainable fuels in all Formula 1 cars” to further progress reductions.
“We are proud of what we have achieved so far and remain determined to continue on this path," he added.
