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How DHL's Formula 1® partnership fuels sustainability for a net zero future

5 Mins Read

As the pinnacle of motorsport, Formula 1® is renowned for breakneck speeds and pioneering innovation. But now, this global spectacle has set its sights on a new finish line: sustainability. Discover how DHL’s partnership with F1 is revolutionizing logistics and why your business should join the race towards a greener future.

From the shimmering streets of Monaco to the searing heat of Bahrain, Formula 1® races across continents, captivating billions as it journeys from circuit to circuit to the world's most iconic locales. This global sporting phenomenon, a crucible for cutting-edge engineering and athleticism, has an illustrious history of pushing the boundaries of what's possible, serving as a testbed for groundbreaking technologies. 

Today, F1 is accelerating towards a new challenge: the race towards a greener future with reduced environmental impact. As the world shifts its focus towards sustainability, Formula 1® is leading the charge, and DHL, as its logistics services partner, is playing a crucial role in driving this green revolution.

The green flag: F1’s drive towards sustainability

Formula 1® has set ambitious sustainability goals, with a commitment to be Net Zero Carbon by 20301. This ambitious target encompasses not only the cars on the track but also the entire F1 ecosystem. 

A prime example of this dedication is the pioneering use of advanced biofuels, often called carbon-neutral fuels, derived from renewable sources like municipal waste and non-food biomass. This move towards 100% sustainable fuels in all cars by 20262 is a crucial step towards achieving F1's net zero ambitions3. 

F1’s “drop-in” fuels are not only derived from sustainable sources but are also compatible with existing engines and infrastructure, paving the way for a more environmentally responsible future for motorsports and transportation worldwide. 

It's worth noting that the current F1 hybrid engines are already the most efficient on the planet3, utilizing a combination of internal combustion and electric power. The move to 100% sustainable biofuels adds another layer to F1's relevance to road car development and showcases the sport's commitment to taking a technological lead in the green revolution.

F1 logistics: The race behind the race

While F1 is making strides in reducing its environmental impact on the track, the sport faces a significant challenge in minimizing its emissions beyond the circuit. 

It's important to remember that the cars themselves contribute less than 1% of the sport's total carbon footprint3. The real environmental impact lies in the global nature of F1, which requires transporting hundreds of tons of equipment, personnel, and cars across continents for each race. 

With over 20 race locations worldwide, this multi-country operation involves moving up to 1,400 tons of equipment, motorsports teams of up to 50 people on-site per race, and 3 race chassis4. While air freight is essential for swift, long-haul transport, sea freight is favored for less time-sensitive deliveries, and road freight takes the lead for the European leg of the F1 calendar5.

Such a complex logistical operation, with its reliance on air freight, sea freight, and long-haul trucking, presents a major hurdle in F1's journey towards sustainability.

DHL providing support for F1 supply chain through sustainable logistics

DHL and sustainable logistics: Delivering a greener Formula 1® experience

DHL's global partnership with Formula 1®, spanning over two decades4, is a testament to the company's prowess in international shipping. With races happening across continents, often with tight turnaround times, the scale of the operation requires meticulous planning, coordination, and a deep understanding of global transport networks.

But this long-standing partnership extends beyond logistical expertise. DHL has aligned itself closely with F1's ambitious sustainability goals, leveraging its expertise and innovative solutions to minimize the environmental impact of the F1 world tour:

  • Bio fueled trucks: During the 2023 European leg of the F1 calendar, the use of biofueled trucks achieved an average reduction of 83% in carbon emissions per truck6, demonstrating the substantial impact that biofuels can have in decarbonizing logistics operations.
  • Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF): For long-haul transportation, DHL is increasingly using Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), which can reduce greenhouse gas emissions by up to 80% compared to conventional jet fuel.
  • Fuel-efficient aircraft: DHL has integrated fuel-efficient Boeing 777 aircraft into its operations, which has resulted in a significant 17% reduction in carbon emissions6 compared to legacy aircraft.
  • Sustainable motorhome: A new motorhome, equipped with solar panels, charging stations, and recycling facilities, will be introduced for selected European races on the Formula 1® calendar, serving as the designated home base for the team6.

DHL Express GoGreen Plus: Carbon-neutral shipping and beyond

Building on the momentum of its F1 partnership, DHL's commitment to sustainability is further demonstrated through its GoGreen Plus service, which allows businesses to reduce Scope 3 carbon emissions in their supply chain through the use of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF).

DHL Express also bolsters these efforts by actively promoting the use of sustainable electric vehicles, contributing to the overall reduction of emissions in the logistics process7. 

Taking a step further beyond individual vehicles, DHL Express adopts a holistic approach to shrinking carbon footprints by leveraging cutting-edge technology like AI-driven route optimization, which analyzes real-time data on traffic, weather, and delivery priorities to create the most efficient routes.

Shifting gears for sustainability: How your business can join the race with F1

The journey towards a greener future requires collective effort and a shared commitment to sustainability. The partnership between DHL and Formula 1® demonstrates that even in a high-speed, high-stakes environment like motorsports, environmental responsibility can be a driving force. 

Through their collaboration, DHL and F1 are showcasing the potential of sustainable logistics services and inspiring others to take pole position in leading the way towards decarbonization. Businesses, both small and large, can play a crucial role in accelerating this transition by embracing eco-focused practices and partnering with logistics providers like DHL Express that offer green solutions.

By choosing DHL Express for your express courier services and opting for GoGreen Plus, you can reduce your carbon footprint and contribute to a more sustainable future. Open a business account today and together, we can accelerate the transition towards net zero, one delivery at a time.

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