Efforts to address environmental concerns are gaining momentum in the world of motorsports. NASCAR, in collaboration with its partners, is taking significant steps to reduce the ecological footprint left by large-scale racing events. The 67th Daytona 500, which drew over 105,000 spectators, exemplifies this commitment. By partnering with Denali, one of the nation's leading organic recyclers, and Levy, the food service provider, NASCAR aims to recycle nearly 80,000 pounds of food waste from this year's races.

The initiative is part of NASCAR IMPACT’s broader sustainability strategy. Through this program, NASCAR seeks to divert substantial amounts of organic waste from landfills, transforming it into valuable resources for agriculture and horticulture. Eric Speiser, Chief Revenue Officer of Denali, emphasized the company's mission to repurpose organic waste, stating that collaborations like these help achieve sustainability goals and contribute to a cleaner future. Riley Nelson, NASCAR’s Head of Sustainability, highlighted the importance of this nationwide recycling effort, noting that NASCAR recycled almost 57,000 pounds of food waste in 2024 alone. This partnership also includes strategic efforts to donate surplus food to local communities, with Levy facilitating the donation of 13,520 pounds of food post-race in 2024.

Reducing food waste not only benefits the environment but also supports the community. Unconsumed food collected by Denali is transformed into compost, nutrient-rich soils, natural fertilizers, and animal feed. These actions lead to a significant reduction in greenhouse gas emissions, equivalent to charging over two million smartphones for 22 hours. Mary McCarthy, Vice President of Sustainability at Levy, outlined the company's goal to cut food waste by 50% by 2030 through prevention, reduction at the source, and recovery efforts. NASCAR’s dedication to achieving net-zero emissions by 2035 underscores the industry's commitment to sustainable practices. This collaborative approach sets a positive example for other sports organizations, paving the way for a greener and more responsible future.