The Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya has become the first Formula One track to attain Achievement of Excellence, the top-level award in the FIA Institute’s Sustainability programme.

The Spanish circuit, located on the outskirts of Barcelona, received its award following an audit of its procedures and credentials. The circuit now joins the likes of Rally Australia and the McLaren F1 team in having attained Achievement of Excellence in sustainability.

The FIA Institute found that the circuit’s management had demonstrated a long-term commitment to environmentally sustainable operations, having received its first ISO certification in 2008. Its continued work in this area clearly meets the requirements of the FIA Institute-developed Environmental Certification Framework.

Vicenç Aguilera, President of the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya, said: “We are delighted to be awarded the Achievement of Excellence from the FIA Institute as a result of our hard work to make the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya one of the most environmentally sustainable racing tracks in the world. We will continue to strive for further sustainability improvements to be made here at the track.”

Garry Connelly, Deputy President and Environmental Ambassador of the FIA Institute, said: “I would like to congratulate the management of the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya on their excellent work. The commitment of the senior management to environmentally sustainable operations is clearly at the highest level and we look forward to continued collaboration in regards to future environmental projects.”

"We also encourage all circuit and motor sport facility owners to embrace the accreditation programme.  Motor sport is leading the way with this sustainability initiative and the FIA Institute has the resources to assist all stakeholders to participate."