F1 2030 : ZERO?! 'CARBON' FOOTPRINT

FORMULA ONE set out its first ever, sustainability plan on Thursday with the aim of achieving a net zero-carbon footprint for the sport by 2030.

The Liberty Media-owned championship, which will have a record 22 22 grand prix next year with the 10 teams flown around the world, said carbon reduction projects would start immediately.

It also promised that all Formula One events would be sustainable by 2025. ''We recognise the critical role that all organisations must play in tackling this global issue,'' said Chairman Chase Carey in a statement.

''By leveraging the immense talent, passion and drive for innovation held by all members of the F1 community, we hope to make a significant positive impact on the environment and communities in which we operate.''

Carey said the current V6 hybrid power engines, in use since 2014, were not most efficient in the world and delivered more power from less fuel than any other car.

''We believe F1 can continue to be a leader for the auto industry and work with the energy and automotive sector to delver the world's first ever zero-carbon hybrid internal combustion engine,'' added the American.

Other initiatives include moving to ultra-efficient logistics and 100% renewably powered offices, facilities and factories.

McLaren were certified as Formula One's first carbon neutral team as long as 2011, but the sport has also struggled to shrug off a gas guzzling reputation dating back to the long-gone days of V12 engines.

Unfavorable comparisons have been made to the all-electric Formula E series, which now has a significant manufacturing presence.

Formula One said sustainable materials will be used at all events, with all waste reused or recycled, and single-use plastics would be barred. [Reuters]