Green Our Planet Receives €100,000 F1 Award in Vegas for STEM Initiative

URGENT UPDATE: Green Our Planet has just been awarded the prestigious F1® Allwyn Global Community Award in Las Vegas, marking a significant boost for its sustainability education initiative. The recognition comes with a generous donation of €100,000 (over $117,000) from Allwyn, aimed at expanding the impactful HydroConnect program.

This announcement, made ahead of the Formula 1® Heineken Las Vegas Grand Prix 2025, highlights Green Our Planet’s commitment to teaching students vital STEM skills through hydroponics. The HydroConnect initiative empowers young learners to grow food sustainably while gaining essential knowledge about nutrition and environmental stewardship.

Green Our Planet operates the largest hydroponics program in the United States, reaching over 500,000 students across 1,400 schools in 44 states. In Las Vegas alone, the initiative collaborates with more than 200 schools, providing hands-on training that transforms the educational experience for over 24,000 students.

According to Ciara Byrne, who accepted the award on behalf of Green Our Planet, “When students learn to grow food, they also grow curiosity, confidence, and a connection to the planet. Having Formula 1 and Allwyn recognize our work is incredibly meaningful. Their support will help us empower even more students.”

The HydroConnect program specifically addresses critical challenges in under-resourced communities, providing equitable access to high-quality education and healthy food options. The donation from Allwyn will enhance this initiative, allowing more students to benefit from sustainable agriculture education.

Formula 1’s involvement goes beyond financial support. They are also the presenting sponsor of Green Our Planet’s Giant Student Farmers Market, the largest student-run market in the U.S., where thousands of students showcase the produce they grow. This annual event celebrates youth entrepreneurship and community engagement.

Besides this, the F1® Las Vegas Grand Prix team has installed its own hydrophobic micro farm at the track, reinforcing its commitment to sustainability in the desert climate, where water conservation is crucial. These hydroponic systems use up to 90% less water than traditional farming methods.

The F1 Allwyn Global Community Award was established to recognize initiatives that positively impact the communities where Formula 1 races. Green Our Planet exemplifies this mission by addressing education, culture, wellbeing, and sustainability through innovative practices.

“Green Our Planet stood out because it delivers tangible results and connects children with sustainability,” said Ellen Jones, Head of ESG at Formula 1. “We hope their work inspires future generations to become leaders in sustainability and community development.”

As part of a multi-year partnership, Allwyn and Formula 1 are dedicated to driving positive change globally, amplifying community impact through initiatives like this. This year, four local initiatives received the same generous donation, showcasing a broad commitment to making a difference.

The award ceremony underlines a growing recognition of the importance of education and sustainability, especially in today’s climate crisis. Green Our Planet’s work, now bolstered by significant funding, will continue to inspire and educate students, fostering a new generation of innovators dedicated to the planet’s future.

Stay tuned for more updates on Green Our Planet’s expanding initiatives and the upcoming Formula 1® Heineken Las Vegas Grand Prix, where sustainability will take center stage.