F1 & DHL: Reducing GHG Emissions in Air Freight with SAF

Formula 1 (F1) is known to go from 0-60 pretty fast, and this is no different when it comes to its attitude to sustainability.

In a constant pursuit of more eco-conscious motorsport, F1 has been working to turn what is often regarded as a roaring fuel-guzzling sport into a green powerhouse, leading the charge toward more sustainable operations.

But F1’s focus is not just on its cars. By working with DHL, the elite and highest class of international racing is driving significant advancements in sustainable logistics for the motorsport industry.

Following the upcoming Singapore Grand Prix, around a fifth of F1 cargo flights to races outside of Europe until the end of the year are set to use DHL’s GoGreen Plus service with SAF.

F1 and DHL: A sustainable logistics pairing

By doubling its fleet of biofuel-powered trucks to 37 for the 2024 season, DHL is making substantial progress in reducing carbon emissions during the European leg of the F1 calendar. 

These trucks, running on HVO100 drop-in fuel, achieve an impressive 83% reduction in carbon emissions compared to its diesel counterparts. 

As well as supporting Formula 1’s ambitious goal of achieving net zero carbon emissions by 2030, this roll-out demonstrates the viability of alternative fuels in heavy-duty transport.

On top of this, F1 and DHL Global Forwarding’s GoGreen Plus have introduced sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) for its air cargo logistics, starting with the Australian Grand Prix in March 2024.

By doing so, greenhouse gas emissions are reduced by around 80% per flight compared to conventional aviation fuel. 

”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”, Ellen Jones, Head of ESG at Formula 1 said.

“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.”

A 20-year partnership between F1 and DHL

DHL and F1’s commitment to sustainability extends beyond alternative fuels, with SAF just being the latest chapter in the duo’s joint sustainability story. 

By working with DHL, F1 has been able to streamline its operations, creating a smoother experience and inspiring innovative solutions that further reduce the greenhouse emissions the sport emits.

Thanks to DHL’s vast logistics portfolio across air, sea and road, innovative solutions have significantly minimised the sport’s environmental impact, such as the introduction of fuel-efficient Boeing 777 aircraft, which reduce carbon emissions by 17% compared to its traditional counterparts as well as the optimisation of race calendars to create more efficient travel routes. 

And it doesn’t stop there. By developing remote broadcasting operations and redesigning freight containers, overall freight volumes have reduced, improving logistical efficiency. 

Paul Fowler, Head of DHL Motorsports Logistics, added: “Our longstanding partnership with Formula 1 is built on a shared passion for innovation and excellence.

“We are committed to using our expertise to support Formula 1 in transporting cars and other equipment around the world in the most efficient way possible. 

“With 40 years of expertise in motorsports logistics, we are focused on identifying ways to cut down greenhouse gas emissions and making motorsport more sustainable with every step we take.”

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