The Mercedes Formula 1 team has announced a new green initiative with United States-based firm Chestnut Carbon, with an exciting transformation project set.

Formula 1 as a sport has made the commitment to reduce its carbon footprint, working towards the goal of becoming carbon neutral by 2030, a target very much shared by the Mercedes team.

A major milestone is set to be reached in F1 2026 when the new generation of power units come into force, featuring a 50/50 split between electrical power and an internal combustion engine running on fully-sustainable biofuel.

And Mercedes has set itself the mission of “becoming one of the most sustainable global sports teams”, their efforts set to be boosted by their new alliance with nature-based carbon
developer Chestnut Carbon.

Focusing on carbon removal projects across the Southeastern United States, the first project announced between Mercedes F1 and Chestnut Carbon will see the transformation of 200 hectares of degraded farmland into biodiverse forests, with over 260,000 native trees to be planted.

In addition, Mercedes and Chestnut Carbon expected to improve air and water quality, as well as biodiversity, and deliver economic benefits to rural communities through the projects they will take on.

The United States has become an increasingly key market in the world of Formula 1, the sport’s popularity having exploded in the nation off the back of the success of Netflix’s hit docuseries Drive to Survive, with three United States-based events appearing on the F1 calendar, the Miami, United States and Las Vegas GPs.

Commenting on the partnership, Toto Wolff, one-third owner of Mercedes F1 and team principal, said: “We are determined to lead by example in the pursuit of sustainability.

“We’re excited about the growth of our sport in the United States and committed to supporting projects there as we work towards our goals.

“This collaboration is an important step in our strategy to address residual emissions in our carbon footprint. It underscores our commitment to become one of the most sustainable global sports teams.”

Read More