How to combine environment and motor sports?

Motor sports have long been criticized for their negative impact on the environment due to the intensive use of fossil fuels and greenhouse gas emissions. However, in recent years, growing awareness has led to efforts to make these sports more environmentally friendly.

Extreme E: Environment and adrenaline

A major initiative in this area is the Extreme E category, which aims to promote sustainability and environmental protection through electric vehicle racing in extreme environments.

The Extreme E category was created with the aim of raising awareness of the environmental challenges facing our planet, whilst providing exciting and competitive racing. The vehicles used in this category are entirely electric, which significantly reduces greenhouse gas emissions compared to traditional racing cars. In addition, these vehicles are powered by renewable energy sources, thus contributing to the transition towards more sustainable mobility.

Formula E: A Model of Sustainability

Formula E, an all-electric motor racing category launched in 2014 by the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA), is distinguished by its commitment to sustainability and technological innovation. Here are some key aspects that make it an example to follow in making motorsport more environmentally friendly:

Use of Electric Vehicles: Formula E cars run on electric motors powered by batteries, eliminating direct emissions of CO2 and other air pollutants typically associated with internal combustion engines.

Renewable Energy: The series strives to use electricity from renewable sources to recharge car batteries. Some races have even implemented charging systems powered by solar energy.

Technological Innovation: Formula E serves as a testbed for many innovative technologies that could be applied to production electric vehicles, thereby helping to improve the energy efficiency and performance of electric cars for the general public.

Urban Events: By organizing races in city centers rather than on remote circuits, Formula E reduces the carbon footprint linked to spectator and team travel. In addition, it raises awareness of the benefits of electric vehicles among a large urban audience.

Picture of a Formule E

Formula 1: Made to disappear?

Electricity is certainly attractive, however nothing will replace the premier category which is Formula 1. Thermal engines, although they pollute, are attractive and provide unparalleled adrenaline. However, should we sacrifice our passion for the environment or can we achieve both?

For me it’s totally compatible. Indeed, as such Formula 1 does not really pollute. It’s especially its environment!

The teams often arrive by private jet, the races are not grouped geographically, which requires extensive travel, etc.

2024 Calendar of Formula 1

But if F1 improves on this, it would drastically reduce carbon emissions and make the sport more environmentally conscious, which could also have a good impact on public awareness.