How Are Formula E Drivers and Teams Making a Difference with a Beach Clean-Up in Jakarta?

Formula E's Commitment to Sustainability: Beach Clean-Up Event in Jakarta

As the world grapples with the increasing challenge of plastic pollution, Formula E has taken proactive steps to mitigate its impact while engaging local communities. The upcoming ABB FIA Formula E Championship Round 12 in Jakarta not only promises adrenaline-pumping racing but also highlights the series' dedication to environmental stewardship. This year, volunteers from race teams, drivers, local stakeholders, and community groups will join forces to clean Pantai Beach at the Ancol resort, reinforcing the series' sustainability and impact strategy.

A Tradition of Change: The Jakarta Beach Clean-Up

This beach clean-up marks the second consecutive year that Formula E has organized such an event in Jakarta. Last year, an impressive 120 bags containing over 440 kg of waste were collected, setting a notable precedent for future initiatives. The clean-up serves as a meaningful tradition ahead of race day, demonstrating Formula E's commitment to leaving a positive mark on the communities it visits.

By partnering with Waste4Change, a waste management service specializing in recycling hard-to-manage materials, Formula E ensures that the refuse collected during the beach clean-up will be handled responsibly. Waste4Change transforms discarded plastics and polystyrene into useful products, promoting a circular economy and reducing landfill reliance.

The Power of Community Engagement

Formula E's beach clean-up initiative is not just about collecting waste; it is a concerted effort to raise awareness about plastic pollution, which poses significant threats to marine habitats and local communities. In Indonesia, over 14 million tons of plastics enter the ocean annually, and much of this waste originates from local rivers and coastal areas. By addressing this pressing issue, the clean-up fosters a sense of responsibility among local stakeholders, especially children and community groups, encouraging them to take an active role in caring for their environment.

Sustainability Initiatives at the Sarinah Jakarta E-Prix

Beyond the beach clean-up, Formula E has implemented several sustainability initiatives designed to reduce waste during the race weekend. These include:

• Free Hydration Stations: Providing water refills to minimize the use of single-use plastic bottles.
• Biodegradable Eco-Cups: Spectators will receive cups made from corn starch flour, a sustainable alternative to traditional plastic.
• Dedicated Waste Stations: Six waste stations will be set up to facilitate proper recycling and waste management.

These measures are part of Formula E's broader strategy to integrate sustainability into every aspect of the racing experience, ensuring that fans can enjoy the event while also contributing to environmental conservation.

Empowering Local Communities: The Better Futures Fund

This season, the Better Futures Fund recipient, Amirah, continues to emphasize community empowerment in environmental stewardship. The CLIMATEABILITY project aims to equip individuals with disabilities, women, and youth with the skills and knowledge necessary to become climate leaders. By focusing on these demographics, Formula E is fostering inclusivity and promoting leadership that addresses climate change at the grassroots level.

Looking Ahead: The Sarinah Jakarta E-Prix Schedule

The excitement surrounding the Jakarta E-Prix culminates in a series of events leading up to the main race. Here are the key dates and times for the weekend:

• Free Practice 1: 16:00 local (09:00 UTC), Friday, 20 June
• Free Practice 2: 08:00 local (01:00 UTC), Saturday, 21 June
• Qualifying: 10:20 local (03:20 UTC), Saturday, 21 June
• Race: 15:00 local (08:00 UTC), Saturday, 21 June

These events promise to deliver thrilling competition in the heart of Jakarta, showcasing the best of electric racing while underscoring the importance of sustainability.

Formula E: A Catalyst for Change

The initiatives surrounding the Jakarta E-Prix exemplify how Formula E is not just a racing series but a platform for meaningful change. By integrating sustainability into its core mission, Formula E demonstrates that high-performance sports can coexist with environmental stewardship.

As Julia Pallé, VP of Sustainability at Formula E, stated, “Plastic pollution is a growing problem that affects everyone around the world, and is a growing challenge here in Jakarta.” The commitment to engage local communities and leave a positive impact is evident in every step taken by the series. Through initiatives like the beach clean-up and the Better Futures Fund, Formula E is paving the way for a cleaner, greener future.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the purpose of the beach clean-up organized by Formula E in Jakarta?

The beach clean-up aims to tackle plastic pollution and marine debris while engaging local communities in environmental stewardship. It seeks to raise awareness about the impact of plastic waste on coastal habitats and empower participants to care for their environment.

How much waste was collected during the previous year's clean-up event?

In 2024, volunteers collected 120 bags of waste, totaling over 440 kg, during the beach clean-up event in Jakarta.

What sustainability initiatives are being implemented during the Sarinah Jakarta E-Prix?

Formula E has established free hydration stations, provided biodegradable eco-cups, and set up dedicated waste stations to enhance recycling and waste management during the race weekend.

Who benefits from the Better Futures Fund associated with Formula E?

The Better Futures Fund supports organizations like Amirah, which empowers individuals with disabilities, women, and youth to become climate leaders through projects like CLIMATEABILITY.

Join the Movement Towards Sustainability

As we look forward to the thrilling races in Jakarta, let’s not forget the significant impact we can make together. Through community engagement and sustainable practices, we can pave the way for a cleaner, healthier planet. Are you ready to be part of the change?

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