By Dylan Bettencourt
Sports Editor
The cancellation of the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix due to severe weather has exposed the harsh reality that the climate emergency is close to home for Formula 1.
The sport’s carbon footprint has long been an issue as it travels the globe and now the question is: Will their efforts be enough to combat the climate crisis?
The decision to cancel the race at Imola was the right one. The region has been devastated by heavy rainfall, resulting in eight deaths and the displacement of 5,000 residents.
Formula One, known for its determination to avoid race cancellations, took the step and even donated €1 million to the Emilia-Romagna relief fund.
Formula One’s carbon emissions come from logistics rather than the racing itself.
A 2018 assessment revealed that out of the 256,551 tons of carbon emitted throughout the season, only 0.7% was directly related to racing activities. The majority of emissions came from air, road, and sea freight (45%) and personnel travel (27.7%), The Guardian reported.
In 2019, Formula One committed to achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2030 and has been actively pursuing this goal.
The sport aims to develop a 100% sustainable fuel that can also be used in road cars, which could have a major impact on global emissions. Additionally, Formula One plans to reduce its own carbon emissions by at least 50% by 2030.
Positive moves have already been made. Formula One and its teams have transitioned their offices and factories to renewable energy sources. The sport has also reduced staff travel by relocating much of its broadcasting operations to Kent, England, and has adopted more efficient air freight methods.
However, experts remain sceptical about Formula One’s ability to achieve its 2030 target.
The real crisis lies with international travel, including the transportation of heavy machinery across the globe throughout the 10-month-long racing season.
Formula One acknowledges the significance of this issue. Ellen Jones, F1’s head of environment, social, and governance, recognises the problem.
“Unavoidable emissions will need to be addressed through offsets,” said Jones.
Pictured above: Flooding of the Imola circuit
Image source: Twitter
