History, downfall, and redemption- these terms are the perfect definitions of the Dutch GP. The iconic Zandvoort track dating back to the Second World War has seen endless stories unfold. However, over the years, a few problems, and major ones, might we add, have caused nothing but trouble. They have mainly encountered financial constraints, and government and municipality dilemmas, and have caused more damage than any apocalypse could.

The Dutch GP has to prove itself from 1986, which sums up to 36 years until returning to the F1 calendar in 2021. Within three years, troubles have resurfaced once again. Previously, Zandvoort had been a dangerous circuit. This led to the cancelation of the 1972 Dutch GP, however, this issue hasn’t prevailed. What has remained constant is the momentary problem. Max Verstappen’s home race once again faces the possibility of being removed from the calendar. However, the circuit authorities plan something massive to impress F1 and FIA.

The Dutch GP is going to walk on the path of sustainability to enter F1’s good books

One must take crucial and desperate action when all doors begin to shut. Looks like the organizers of the Dutch GP are following the same path. F1 has set a mammoth target for itself- to hit Net Zero Carbon by 2030. Several tracks have already taken up this challenge, with Zandvoort leading the campaign.

Emma, the Business of Motorsport tutor, was impressed with the progress and the circuit’s commitment to sustainability. However, she is slightly skeptical about Zandvoort being way off achieving their aim of the world’s most sustainable circuit.

Emma visited the Dutch GP in 2023. The vibe and ambiance enthralled her greatly. But she had a few observations. Emma noted: ” The Dutch event has the lofty ambition to be the most sustainable race on the Formula 1 calendar. They are certainly going ‘all out’ with their green travel policy.”

The Zandvoort town remains completely blocked over the race weekend. Only the residents and selected event-related traffic remain permitted to drive in the local area. The event organizers have reported, “car parking spaces were reduced by 5% from the previous year with only 233 available in total.” About one-third of spectators and many event staff used bikes or scooters for transport, another third took the train, and locals often walked. The Dutch GP organizers also use different ways to ensure their sustainability. Let’s know more!

Zandvoort’s bicycle revolution

The 2023 Dutch GP saw people coming to the circuit on their bicycles. The circuit’s commitment to sustainable travel was clear in the mass of cyclists that kept arriving daily. Holland is a known cycling-loving country, but the sheer number of bikes at Zandvoort was impressive. The authorities cleverly named the biking parking area after F1 circuits.

Though some stray bicycles were still scattered around, these areas were astoundingly well-organized. While many circuits encourage sustainable travel, Zandvoort’s car ban made it even more effective.

Dutch GP gives tokens to visitors to help them in the sustainability journey

The Business of Motorsport tutor also observed something unique at the Dutch GP. The organizers give the audience tokens on arrival without explaining the guidelines for using them. You could exchange them for recyclable cups and cans and receive more tokens or discounted drinks when you return them. The idea was great, but not well executed.

The Dutch GP website highlights various efforts to support local jobs, biodiversity, and community engagement. Although it’s challenging for circuits to show their impact on social and economic goals, reporting these aspects is crucial. By sharing positive stories and engaging fans on sustainability beyond green travel, Zandvoort could improve its sustainability rankings.

Now, let’s find out about F1’s 2030 sustainability goal. Does a greener Formula 1 lie ahead?

F1’s Net Zero Carbon goal for 2o30 and significant progress in the first sustainability report

F1 has called for all its stakeholders to actively involve themselves in the journey towards a greener future of motorsport. Notably, the organization set a deadline for 2030, and results have already surfaced. The sport has already gone through a massive cultural change. The environmental impact and the goal of Net Zero Carbon by 2030 are now integral to every F1 decision and initiative, whereas they were not a priority earlier.

“As always, there is never one silver bullet to these challenges,” says F1 Managing Director, Motorsports, Ross Brawn. “There are a whole array of changes we have to make, from on the track to where we work.”

This project is enormous, and it needed a kick-start. So, all the drivers and teams present in the paddock took one step at a time. The sport has significantly reduced the use of single-use plastics and is emphasizing the 3Rs—Reuse, Reduce, Recycle. Everyone is making it a point to use reusable bottles and provide plentiful water stations.

In 2022, F1 provided guidance, focusing on six key areas for improvement – namely plastic bottles, local fan travel, well-being & nature, and more. The response was positive and impactful, as many circuits installed solar panels. The Barcelona and Sakhir circuits currently use 100% renewable energy.

Sustainable fuel from 2026 onwards

F1 has taken another colossal step by using 100% sustainable fuel under the new regulations. Advanced sustainable fuels, also known as e-fuels or synthetic fuels, are made from carbon capture, municipal waste, or non-food biomass. They reduce greenhouse gas emissions by at least the amount required by current regulations. Advanced sustainable fuels remove carbon from the atmosphere during production, reducing CO2 emissions by 85-96% compared to fossil fuels.

A slight change in F1’s global footprint

The authorities are also improving their logistics to reduce their global carbon footprint. In 2020, F1 switched to a remote broadcasting model, cutting down on technical cargo and staff travel. Moreover, the sport is now designing flexible shipping containers for more fuel-efficient transport. Additionally, F1 is exploring regional race groupings to streamline travel, though this will take time because of commercial and promoter considerations.

The First Impact Report shows great progress

F1 has succeeded in reducing its carbon footprint by 13% since 2018. The first report details achievements like using renewable energy at more than 75% of events and significant reductions in carbon emissions from logistics and energy use. The Austrian GP reduced emissions by over 90%, and the British Grand Prix powered itself entirely with green energy. However, Zandvoort, or the Dutch GP, is rather miles away from achieving the ‘sustainable circuit’ title.

Zandvoort’s rating struggles could have an overall negative impact

Despite laudable efforts, Max Verstappen‘s home circuit has a one-star rating on the sustainability ranking. Poor infrastructure, logistics, and more have been problematic for them. Moreover, the organizers need to improve transport facilities. The circuit is yet to achieve the goal they’ve set for themselves. Though progress continues, the Dutch GP still needs to work toward reaching top sustainability levels.

Will the step towards sustainability convince F1 to retain the Dutch GP? Most probably, no. The maintenance of the circuit, monetary support, and administrative support are also necessary for the smooth functioning of any racing event. Zandvoort has time and again failed to deliver, and history is repeating itself.

40 years ago Bernie Ecclestone had to drop the Dutch GP due to persistent issues and maybe this time Stefano Domenicalli has to do the hard task. A quick and effective solution can help the Netherlands retain its sole f1 race. What do you think?