22 April 2026 – One of the UK’s most iconic motorsport venues has met stringent requirements to deliver events sustainably, in a way that minimises their environmental, social and economic impacts.
Silverstone has become the latest major sporting or events organisation to certify with BSI to Sustainable Event Management Systems (ISO 20121), an internationally recognized framework that events such as the Olympics, COP climate conferences and IMF meetings also use.
To achieve certification, Silverstone had to demonstrate that sustainability is embedded across every stage of event planning and delivery, from supplier selection and waste management to stakeholder engagement and legacy impact.
Silverstone achieved BSI certification by demonstrating measurable progress against a clear and ambitious sustainability strategy, including generating 18% of its electricity on site and committing to a 50% emissions reduction by 2030 under its “Shifting to Zero” roadmap, supported by long-term investment aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals. The venue now operates on 100% REGO-backed renewable electricity, supplemented by over 2,700 solar panels, and has transitioned to lower-carbon fuels such as HVO for generators, extending this to Formula 1 teams during events. It has significantly boosted sustainable travel through expanded park-and-ride services, while setting bold environmental targets like eliminating single-use plastics.
Silverstone also strengthened supplier standards through sustainability codes, engaged actively in industry collaborations, and implemented comprehensive environmental monitoring across key metrics. Internally, strong governance and staff engagement support delivery, alongside sustainable food and beverage practices such as local sourcing, improved waste segregation, and digital transparency for consumers.
The process involved a comprehensive independent audit of Silverstone’s policies and governance structures, operational controls, risk management procedures, and continuous improvement strategies, ensuring that sustainability is systematically embedded across the organization. As sustainability becomes an increasing priority for clients, partners and fans, ISO 20121 positions Silverstone at the forefront of responsible event delivery, across all sectors hosting complex, large-scale events.
Martin Townsend, Director of Sustainability at BSI, said: “Hosting an event such as the Formula 1 British Grand Prix, which brings together around 150,000 spectators on race day and close to 500,000 across the full weekend, creates considerable operational and environmental complexity. It is also an opportunity for iconic venues to show leadership on sustainability.
“Achieving certification to the sustainable events management systems standard (ISO 20121) is a significant milestone for a venue of Silverstone’s scale and global reach. At that scale, sustainability cannot sit on the sidelines, it has to be embedded into how the event is designed and delivered. Silverstone’s progress shows that sustainability is being translated into measurable action.
Leadership of this kind sets an important benchmark that will ultimately help the motorsport industry and wider society accelerate progress towards a sustainable world.”
First published by BSI ahead of the London Olympics in 2012, the sustainable events management standard ISO 20121 was revised in 2024. It has been used by organizations ranging from COP28 to the G7 and IMF, Liverpool and Tottenham Football Clubs, the Olympics, Edgbaston Cricket Stadium and many more.
With expert support from Enovation Consulting, Silverstone will continue refining its management systems, setting ambitious sustainability targets, and driving innovation across the industry.
Dr. Cristiana Pace, Founder & CEO of Enovation Consulting, said: “We congratulate the whole team at Silverstone Circuit for achieving the ISO 20121 certification, reflecting their consistent long-term commitment to integrating sustainability principles into operational decision making. Over the past four years, we have worked hand in hand with the Silverstone ESG Team to create and implement the Shift to Zero Strategy, including support with the ISO 20121 and other major achievements along the way. We are proud to continue working together with such a committed and passionate team, in such a legendary sports and events venue.”
James Allen, Venue Operations Director of Silverstone: “We are absolutely thrilled to achieve ISO 20121 accreditation — a milestone that reflects our unwavering commitment to sustainability, responsible event management, and continuing the Silverstone legacy. This recognition not only validates the hard work of our team but also reinforces our promise to drive sustainability excellence and operational efficiency through innovation, and purpose.”
The achievement builds on Silverstone’s existing certification to Environmental Management Systems (ISO 14001), representing another important step in the organization’s sustainability journey.
For further information on ISO 20121 certification with BSI, visit our website.
