ABB FIA Formula E and CSM Live reduce plastic production and waste at events

Formula E enlisted CSM Live to develop new solutions for trackside branding, and after 12-months of intensive research, a new strong, durable and sustainable alternative will be applied to the barriers lining each circuit – starting in the Italian capital for the GEOX Rome E-Prix and the first instalment of the voestalpine European races on April 13.

The new adhesive film has been tailor-made and produced to meet the specific needs of the electric street racing series, in conjunction with specialist manufacturer and established supply chain partner HEXIS. The new trackside signage will replace any previously-used materials and significantly limit the environmental impact of the series and cutting back on 35-kilometers of potential PVC waste.

With the same high-quality performance as its PVC predecessor, the innovative product is made of polypropylene, a material widely used across a number of industries due to its recyclable properties.

Both Formula E and CSM Live – part of CSM Sport & Entertainment – have a shared  commitment to sustainable practice and working methods, with the ABB FIA Formula E Championship being recognised as the first category in motorsport to receive third-party ISO20121 certification.

Julia Palle, senior sustainability consultant at Formula E, said: “Working together with a trusted and credible supplier in CSM Live, we’ve been able to deliver sustainable solutions for branding and trackside signage. Not only does the non-PVC material provide similar levels of strength and durability, each aspect has been carefully considered in order to fully limit its impact – from production line to re- use and recycling. Introducing new and innovative ways of branding allows the ABB FIA Formula E Championship to continue accelerating positive change in the events industry.”

Graham Clark, managing director at CSM Live – part of CSM Sport & Entertainment, said: “We’re proud to have worked closely with Formula E since its inception and whole-heartedly support the mission of the ABB FIA Formula E Championship to drive sustainable event management. In order to completely close the loop, we’ve looked at all elements of our supply chain and we’re thrilled to be able to deliver this new product – pioneering the way for non-PVC solutions to be used industry-wide across the globe.”