The Formula One (F1) team of Mercedes has joined forces with Chestnut Carbon to support carbon removal projects across Southeastern US.
Under the agreement, the nature-based carbon developer will remove 5,500 tonnes of CO2, delivering carbon dioxide removal (CDR) credits to the Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 team between 2027 and 2030.
The first initiative will involve restoring 200 hectares of degraded agricultural acreage into biodiverse forests through the planting of more than 260,000 native trees.
By investing in Chestnut Carbon now, the Mercedes F1 Team is securing nature-based carbon removal credits to compensate for future residual emissions.
Chestnut Carbon’s projects focus on land previously used for monocrops and methane-heavy cattle production.
To date, it has planted more than 10 million trees, with a diverse mix of native pine and over 18 different hardwood species that will capture and remove over one million tonnes of carbon by 2040.
As well as restoring degraded crop and pasture lands to healthy forests, the latest projects will improve the air, water and biodiversity of the region and bring economic benefits to rural communities.
Toto Wolff, Mercedes F1 Team Principal and CEO 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.”
The Mercedes F1 team achieved 98% biofuel coverage for its race and marketing trucks and generators for the European leg of the 2024 season.