The Red Bull Ring is making significant progress in implementing environmentally friendly practices in the field of motorsport. During the Formula 1 Austrian Grand Prix weekend, the pit and paddock areas of the Red Bull Ring will be powered by a low-carbon energy system for the second consecutive year. Formula 1 has set an ambitious goal of achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2030. One step towards this objective is the introduction of sustainable fuels in Formula 1 cars by 2026. However, the carbon footprint of the 20 Formula 1 teams is only a small part of the overall impact of the series. The biggest contributor to carbon emissions is the infrastructure surrounding Formula 1, including travel, transportation, and event organization.
The Red Bull Ring has made significant progress in addressing this issue, mainly through the successful implementation of a low-carbon energy system in 2023. This system has resulted in a remarkable 90% reduction in carbon emissions in the pits, paddock, and Formula 1 Technical Events Center. Aggreko, the energy provider, is responsible for the centralized power system that supplies the paddock using various sustainable sources. These sources include hydro-treated vegetable oil (HVO) biofuel, 200 solar panels covering an area of 600 m2, and a battery storage system provided by a renewable energy network. The efficiency of this system is such that none of the 10 Formula 1 teams need to use their own generators during the Austrian GP weekend. The test conducted last year demonstrated a significant decrease in CO2 emissions, from 198 tons in 2022 to only 12 tons in 2023. To implement this impressive system, 40 fewer generators would be needed in the paddock compared to a standard weekend. To achieve Formula 1’s goal for 2030, it is crucial to replicate these practices throughout the Formula 1 calendar.
However, additional measures must be taken to ensure that Formula 1 achieves its net zero emissions goal. A major challenge is the carbon footprint resulting from extensive air travel involved in the sport. In 2022, Mercedes took a significant step towards reducing its travel impact by investing in Sustainable Aviation Fuels, aiming to reduce its travel footprint by 50%. Team Principal Toto Wolff emphasized the potential of Sustainable Aviation Fuels to transform travel and minimize environmental impact. He acknowledged the personal and professional importance of finding a better way to fly, highlighting Sustainable Aviation Fuels as the current best solution for the aviation industry.
