F1 makes first investment in SAF
Image courtesy DHL
The first phase of investment focuses on SAF purchases through Global Partner DHL for air cargo to and from flyaway races since the Australian Grand Prix in March and covers approximately 20% of subsequent cargo flights this season.
Using SAF delivers an estimated 80% reduction in associated carbon emissions① per flight, which means that the flights covered by SAF purchases in the 2024 season are estimated to save over 4,500 tCO2e (tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent②), compared to the use of conventional aviation fuel.
In this first phase of investment, Formula 1 is procuring SAF using the industry recognised ‘book and claim’ model through DHL’s GoGreen Plus service. As the sector and SAF infrastructure is expanding, it is not possible to directly fuel cargo planes used to move F1 freight with SAF. Instead, DHL has enabled F1 to ‘book’ the needed fuel amount, which then gets added to the supply chain in other planes where SAF is directly available. This ensures a high standard of product quality and traceability, with all carbon reductions verified before F1 can ‘claim’ them in their carbon footprint. This model helps reduce carbon emissions with current SAF volumes and encourages future market growth.
SAF is the latest example of F1’s continued transition to sustainable fuels across the sport and its operations. From 2026, F1 cars will run on 100% sustainable fuel, while F2 and F3 will reach that standard by next season having been at 55% since the start of 2023, and the FIA Safety and Medical cars currently use 40% sustainable fuel. Grands Prix in Europe are delivered using biofuel-powered trucks, as well as events throughout the calendar using alternative energy solutions, such as biofuel. From next season, F1 will also power key operational areas of all European Grands Prix, such as the Pit Lane and Paddock, using a low-carbon power solution provided by Aggreko, which reduces emissions in the supplied areas by more than 90%.
Ellen Jones, Head of ESG, Formula 1 said: “Formula 1 has always been at the forefront of innovation, and our early stage investment in Sustainable Aviation Fuel is a testament to our dedication to deliver on our Net Zero by 2030 commitment. SAF is just the latest step for the business, and underscores how alternative fuels both on and off track can materially reduce carbon emissions. This delivery of our sustainability strategy is only made possible through coordinated actions across our sport.”
Paul Fowler, Head of Motorsports Logistics, DHL said: “Our longstanding partnership with Formula 1 is built on a shared passion for innovation and excellence. We are committed to using our expertise to transport Formula 1's cars and equipment around the world in the most efficient way possible. With 40 years of expertise in motorsports logistics, we are focused on cutting down greenhouse gas emissions and making motorsport more sustainable with every step we take.”
