UAE motor sports awarded for sustainability efforts

The United Arab Emirates was recognized this week as the third country in the world to receive an Achievement of Excellence in Motor Sport Sustainability, awarded by the FIA Institute for Motor Sport Safety and Sustainability.

FIA is the international governing body for motor sports, and the institute’s award came on the heels of major sustainability efforts by the Automobile and Touring Club of the UAE (ATCUAE), the country’s motor sport authority.

The UAE has implemented wide-ranging sustainable development initiatives in line with the global environmental goals of FIA, including minimizing waste and promoting recycling at sporting events. Race drivers and crews are also held to a high standard in the UAE. The Touring Club has strict environmental protection regulations for the Abu Dhabi Desert Challenge, which draws drivers from around the globe to race through fantastic desert terrain in Al Gharbia.

Competitors who leak auto fluids into the ground or leave tires and waste behind are subject to time penalties, fines and even disqualification.

“We recognize that we have a vital role to play in delivering a better quality of life and environment for everyone in the UAE, both now and for future generations,” ATCUAE President Mohammed Ben Sulayem said. “Moving forward, we will continue to make every effort to further reduce our own impact and promote awareness of local and global issues that help sustainable development practices.”

The United Arab Emirates joins Norway and Britain as the only countries thus far recognized for motor sport sustainability.