SUSTAINABLE MOTORSPORT
Russell continues : “ Our members recognised that the environmental impact of motorsport needs to be considered , and the competition element of motorsport is just the tip of the iceberg . There are many factors involved and everything makes a difference – from the emissions caused by driving to an event to printing out signing-on forms .
“ We are only at the start of our sustainability journey , but the accreditation has already proved to be a great way to raise awareness around the Club and the wider motorsport community that we engage with . We know our environmental targets and goals for the next three years and the biggest benefit is that we now have a sense of direction and purpose .”
Templates and worksheets are now available online at Motorsport UK to help committees and senior management teams create a practical and realistic plan , based upon the FIA Sustainability programme – which is currently mandatory for Clubs running Stage and Road Rallies under the sustainable Rally Charter and Motorsport UK ’ s work with the Foresty bodies , but voluntary for other Clubs .
The accreditation involves developing an environmental policy statement , identifying environmental aspects and impacts of activities , setting environmental goals and objectives and managing the operation and implementation of the Environmental Management System , which is vital to help with the long-term sustainability of the sport .
Beyond Environmental Benefits
It is , of course , not just motorsport that creates a climate impact . All sports across all sectors and of all sizes – from Premier League football to school athletics tournaments – can have a negative impact on the world around us , with damage to the environment through waste , pollution and general lack of duty of care and environmental awareness .
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Sustainability Volunteer
The Sustainability Accreditation process has been developed to be as simple as possible , but for those who still find it a challenge , Motorsport UK has recruited several volunteer experts to provide their time and knowledge for the cause . We spoke to one of them , Ellie Richards – whose day job is a Sustainability Analyst for Enovation Consulting – to find out more about the opportunities .
Revolution - March 2025
How did you hear about the volunteering scheme ?
“ I attended a webinar on sustainability in motorsport hosted by Girls on Track and during the session , this volunteering scheme was mentioned . I was immediately keen to take part .”
What made you interested in getting involved ?
“ I ’ ve always had an interest in sustainability , particularly through my geography degree , and motorsport has been a passion of mine for years . Before hearing about this initiative , I hadn ’ t really considered how the two could come together . When I learned about the program , I saw it as a great chance to gain hands-on experience , contribute to a more sustainable future for motorsport , and support clubs in making meaningful changes .”
What benefits does it give you ?
“ It has helped me build my experience and skill development including giving me practical experience in data collection , carbon footprint calculations , and sustainability initiatives . I have also benefitted from networking and connections , engaging with motorsport clubs , industry professionals and likeminded volunteers , and it has given me great personal satisfaction , knowing that my work is making a tangible difference in helping clubs become more sustainable .”
How receptive have you found the clubs you work with ?
“ Very receptive ! Most clubs are keen to get involved and take steps towards sustainability , but many simply don ’ t know where to start .”
What is the most difficult thing about helping clubs become sustainable , and how do you overcome it ?
“ One of the biggest challenges is the lack of time and resources on the Club ’ s side . Many are run by volunteers who already have a lot on their plates , so sustainability can feel like an extra burden . That ’ s where we come in – we simplify the process by collecting and inputting data . Our goal is to make it as easy and practical as possible .”
What achievement makes you most satisfied ?
“ Knowing that I ’ ve helped a club take its first step toward sustainability ! Even small changes can have a big impact , and it ’ s rewarding to see motorsport moving in a more sustainable direction .”
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