Clean Air Resourcefulness
Road America has participated in the NASCAR Green Clean Air
Program. As part of this effort, numerous trees have been planted
on and around the property to help offset carbon emissions
created during events. The track also partners with local groups
to expand these planting efforts into the surrounding
community.
Instead of removing deceased ash trees, Road America turned them
into beautiful carvings that now add character around the
facility. These steps reduce the track’s carbon footprint and
improve the natural landscape for everyone who visits.
Solar Power and Electric Vehicles
Moving toward a cleaner future, Road America installed a
solar-powered EV charging station in partnership with EnTech
Solutions. Located in the paddock, the station generates
renewable energy to charge electric vehicles. It even stores
extra solar energy for cloudy days.
The station supports the shift toward cleaner transportation and
helps reduce reliance on the power grid — a small but meaningful
step forward in making the motorsports community more
sustainable.
Sustainable Facilities: The Paddock Tech Center
Sustainability efforts aren’t limited to the track. The Paddock
Tech Center, a 13-bay garage, was built with eco-friendly design
in mind. It features energy-efficient lighting powered by rooftop
solar tubes.
This approach reduces carbon emissions and lowers energy use,
while still providing teams with a high-quality space for car
preparation and maintenance. It’s proof that smart design can
benefit both the environment and racing operations.
Track Improvements with a Purpose
Between 2021 and 2022, Road America made several upgrades with
sustainability at the center:
– Tire Recycling: Over 5,000 used tires were removed and
recycled, cutting down on waste.
– Concrete Wall Enhancements: More than 2,000 feet of new
concrete walls were installed to improve safety.
– Track Repaving: The track was repaved while preserving its
historic layout. Old asphalt was ground up and reused for
pathways and parking lots.
– Drainage Improvements: Upgraded drainage systems help manage
water runoff, keeping the environment cleaner.
Every project shows that smart planning and environmental care
can go hand in hand.
Creative Recycling: Conveyor Belts
Working with Michels, Road America found a way to reuse worn-out
conveyor belts by wrapping them around stacked tires used for
safety barriers. This clever solution keeps tires secure during
accidents and keeps tons of material out of landfills.
It’s another example of how Road America finds practical,
real-world solutions that benefit both safety and the
environment.
Permanent Restrooms: A Smarter Choice
Instead of relying on temporary portable restrooms, Road America
invested in permanent facilities throughout the grounds. This
decision reduces the carbon footprint tied to the constant
transportation and servicing of portable units.
These new restrooms also use low-flow toilets and urinals,
helping conserve water. It’s a change that’s better for guests —
and better for the environment.
A Commitment That Runs Deep
At Road America, sustainability isn’t a slogan. It’s an
operational standard. From tree planting to solar energy to
recycling, the track has built a strong model of environmental
stewardship.
Road America’s efforts prove that motorsports can honor
tradition, deliver excitement, and still move toward a more
sustainable future. It’s a legacy worth celebrating — and one
that inspires everyone who cares about the future of racing and
the world around us.