The renowned Formula 1 team commits to achieving Net Zero carbon emissions by 2040
In a landmark move, the Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS Formula One Team has solidified its commitment to sustainability by becoming the first motorsport team to sign The Climate Pledge. This significant step underscores the team’s dedication to combatting climate change and contributing to a more sustainable future.
Founded in 2019 by Global Optimism and Amazon, The Climate Pledge aims to accelerate the world’s transition to a low-carbon economy by achieving Net Zero carbon emissions by 2040, a decade ahead of the international target outlined in the Paris Agreement. With over 450 organizations already on board, the pledge represents a global alliance of companies striving to make a tangible impact on the environment.
By joining The Climate Pledge, the Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team commits to transparently reporting its greenhouse gas emissions and implementing robust decarbonization strategies aligned with the goals of the Paris Agreement. This includes embracing efficiency improvements, renewable energy sources, materials reductions, and other innovative carbon reduction measures.
Moreover, the team pledges to neutralize any remaining emissions through quantifiable, permanent, and socially beneficial offsets, ensuring that it achieves Net Zero annual carbon emissions by 2040. This comprehensive approach underscores the team’s determination to lead the way in sustainable practices within the high-performance motorsport industry.
Toto Wolff, Team Principal and CEO of the Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team, emphasized the significance of this commitment, stating, “Signing The Climate Pledge is another demonstration of our intent to perform to the highest standard on sustainability. We want to win through sustainable high performance, and to win within the societal and planetary boundaries which exist.”
As part of its sustainability journey, the team has set ambitious targets, aiming to achieve Race Team controlled Net Zero by 2030 and Net Zero across all scopes by 2040. Building on its progress, the team has already taken bold steps to reduce its carbon footprint, including the adoption of alternative fuels for land and air travel.
Notably, the team’s investment in Sustainable Aviation Fuel and the utilization of HVO100 biofuel in race and hospitality operations have resulted in substantial emissions savings. These initiatives underscore the team’s proactive approach to mitigating its environmental impact while maintaining its competitive edge on the track.
Alice Ashpitel, Head of Sustainability of the Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team, highlighted the team’s commitment to sustainability, stating, “Joining The Climate Pledge consolidates our commitment to sustainability and our existing strategy to achieve Race Team controlled Net Zero by 2030 and Net Zero across all scopes by 2040. With sustainability embedded throughout our team, we are on track to meet our targets and help our suppliers go further and faster in achieving theirs.”
Sally Fouts, Global Lead for The Climate Pledge at Amazon, expressed enthusiasm for the team’s decision, emphasizing the importance of collective action in combating climate change. “We need every sector to join us in reducing global emissions,” Fouts stated. “We look forward to collaborating with the team on solutions as it races to be net-zero carbon by 2040.”
As the Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team leads the charge towards a sustainable future, its commitment to The Climate Pledge sets a precedent for motorsport teams worldwide. By prioritizing environmental stewardship alongside performance excellence, the team exemplifies the power of innovation and collaboration in driving positive change on and off the track.
(Featured image credit: © Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 / Brackley Headquarters)
