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illuminem summarises for you the essential news of the day. Read the full piece on The Japan Times or enjoy below:
🗞️ Driving the news: Formula 1 has reduced its carbon footprint by 26% since 2018, marking a major milestone in its commitment to reach net zero emissions by 2030
• The sport's total emissions dropped to 168,720 tonnes CO₂e in 2024, driven by increased use of renewable energy, sustainable aviation fuel, hybrid technologies, and more efficient logistics and operations
🔭 The context: Historically seen as a high-emissions sport, Formula 1 has faced rising scrutiny from environmental groups, including protests at major races
• In response, F1 launched its sustainability strategy in 2019, aligned with IPCC science and the Greenhouse Gas Protocol
• It targets a 50% absolute emissions reduction by 2030 and has integrated sustainability measures across facilities, logistics, events, and travel
🌍 Why it matters for the planet: F1’s emissions profile—rooted in global travel, energy-intensive operations, and high-visibility events—makes its decarbonization progress influential both symbolically and practically
• Shifts to sustainable fuel, hybrid engines, and optimized race scheduling could serve as a blueprint for other global sports and high-mobility sectors
• However, infrastructure impacts and public skepticism remain challenges
⏭️ What's next: In 2026, F1 will introduce new hybrid engines powered by 100% advanced sustainable fuel
• Race scheduling will continue to be streamlined to minimize carbon-intensive travel, with the Monaco Grand Prix aligning with other European events
• As the Brazilian Grand Prix in November coincides with COP30, F1 will likely face renewed scrutiny on its climate claims and operational impacts
💬 One quote: “We’re not only changing what we’re doing materially, we’re also changing the technologies.” – Ellen Jones, Head of ESG, Formula 1
📈 One stat: F1 facilities and factories have cut emissions by 59% since 2018—the largest reduction among the four categories the sport tracks
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