The Motorsport UK Environmental Award recognises outstanding achievements and initiatives that are aligned to Motorsport UK’s Sustainability Strategy that aims to help the sport reach the goal of net zero at both a national and grassroots level.

The award was presented by Motorsport UK chair, David Richards, to Stephane Bazire, head of business sustainability and partnerships at Silverstone, at Motorsport UK’s Night of Champions.

"Silverstone launched its business sustainability strategy in June 2022, setting out its commitment to maximise its racing mentality to fast track challenging changes and become a platform for innovation as well as a sustainable destination for business and events," the nomination said. 

"That pioneering vision is to accelerate sustainability in motorsports by committing to an ambitious ten-year venue and facility investment strategy."

Among the proposed measures are the completed installation of 2,764 panels covering over 5,200 m2 on the roof of the Wing - the International Conference and Exhibition Centre situated in the Formula 1 paddock generating over 10 per cent of the venue’s power; using hydrotreated vegetable oil to run all on site generators that are under the control of Silverstone, resulting in a 90 per cent reduction of emissions and targeting all energy to the site to be 100 per cent renewable in 2023.

Other measures include introducing 30 electric vehicle charging stations on site this year; implementing 22 water refill stations to help reduce single-use plastics; continuing to evolve its catering offer to encourage more plant-based options and reduce food waste; zero single use plastic and zero waste to landfill, with 100 per cent waste being re-used, recycled and composted by 2026.

Meanwhile at an international level, Silverstone recently committed to the United Nations Sports for Climate Action programme and was awarded FIA 2* Sustainability Accreditation.

Hugh Chambers, Motorsport UK chief executive, said, "There is no greater time than now for our industry to find and implement a range of solutions that will help the sport to reach net-zero.

"Venues represent a critical part of the journey for motorsport to achieve this goal and Silverstone’s approach to environmental sustainability sets the standard for top tier circuits across the globe."

Stuart Pringle, Silverstone managing director, commented, "As the home of British motorsport we have a responsibility to lead the way with smarter and cleaner methods of working and sustainability is now at the heart of all we do at Silverstone."