The Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team has joined forces with nature-based carbon developer Chestnut Carbon to support high-quality carbon removal projects across the Southeastern United States.

Our work with Chestnut Carbon will help to deliver impactful climate projects that scale the rejuvenation of damaged land. The first project is the restoration of 200 hectares of degraded agricultural acreage into vibrant biodiverse forests through the planting of over 260,000 native trees.

Although emissions reduction remains our primary focus, we recognise that some areas within our carbon footprint may have residual emissions which will require removals of the highest quality, in line with the Oxford Offsetting Principles.

By investing in Chestnut Carbon now, we are securing nature-based carbon removal credits to compensate for future residual emissions and encouraging the growth of this key sector.

Our forward purchase of credits, set to be delivered between 2027 and 2030, equates to 5,500 tonnes of CO₂. Although this is a small part of our total footprint, it is an important step in our overall emissions reduction with a target of Race Team Control Net Zero by 2030.

Chestnut Carbon’s projects focus on land previously used for monocrops and methane-heavy cattle production. To date, Chestnut Carbon have planted over 10 million trees, with a diverse mix of native pine and 18 different hardwood species that will capture and remove over one million tonnes of carbon by 2040.

In addition to restoring degraded crop and pasture lands to healthy forests, the projects that we will be supporting also improve the air, water and biodiversity of the region and bring economic benefits to rural communities by sourcing seedlings locally, hiring resident experts, and employing local people for planting activities.

This initiative is the latest addition to our portfolio of nature and tech-based carbon removal projects. By collaborating with Chestnut Carbon, we have chosen to invest in a project that is registered with the Gold Standard for Global Goals. This standard sits under one of the most rigorous forest carbon methodologies, with highly conservative carbon accounting, third-party auditing, and unassailable additionality. 

Toto Wolff, Team Principal and CEO, Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team
“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.”

Alice Ashpitel, Head of Sustainability, Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team

“Working with Chestnut Carbon is another step in our mission to drive sustainability and environmental responsibility within the motorsport industry. Our collaboration allows us to support projects that not only sequester carbon but also enhance biodiversity, improve air and water quality, and provide economic benefits to local communities. These efforts are integral to our goal of fostering ecological protection and our commitment to protect and enhance local habitats. This latest investment forms a key part of our broader portfolio of nature and tech-based carbon removal initiatives.”

Ben Dell, CEO, Chestnut Carbon
“We are excited to be working with the Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team to advance their carbon removal efforts using high-quality nature-based solutions. Our commitment to the long-term success and sustainability of these projects is unwavering, which is why we prioritise the permanence of our initiatives. This commitment is reflected in our ownership of the land and our 100-year project design. Additionally, we have developed a comprehensive Community Engagement plan to ensure transparent communication and positive relationships with local stakeholders, reinforcing our dedication to both environmental stewardship and community support.»

Our latest Sustainability Report was published in July 2024. To view and for further

information on our ambitions, please visit the Sustainability section of our website.