To raise awareness of the impact of climate change on young people, UNICEF and Formula E are set to auction a unique sculpture created from used race cars.

The sculpture, named Children’s Planet, has been made by British sculptor Charles Elliot. It uses parts of the Formula E GEN2 race cars used in the most recent season of the event. The sculpture takes the form of an incomplete globe with 11 child-like figures in the centre. 

The number 11 represents the number of teams in the championship. The childlike nature of the figures is designed to raise awareness of children and young people being disproportionately affected by the effects of climate change. By positioning these figures in the center, the sculpture highlights the important role that children play in shaping the future. It aims to spotlight the idea that the next generation is able to make change. 

“Children and young people play a key role in addressing climate-related risks by promoting environmentally sustainable lifestyles and setting an example for their communities; they are at the centre of issues arising from climate change,” explained Jon Sparkes, Chief Executive of The UK Committee for UNICEF (UNICEF UK).

He continued: “It is wonderful to see Children’s Planet, position children and young people, in their rightful place, at the centre of the globe, to acknowledge them as active agents, taking action against climate change issues.”

The sculpture measures 2.5 meters in diameter and the broken parts used to create the artwork were all gifted by the 11 Formula E teams. The installation is a manifestation of the importance of circularity in manufacturing, the more sustainable credentials of Formula E and the teams’ collective support for the championship’s partner, UNICEF.

Formula E is the world’s first sport to be certified net zero carbon since inception and is also the first international sports organisation to partner with UNICEF to tackle climate change through the support of its Safe and Healthy Environment Fund.

‘Children’s Planet’ is set to be auctioned to benefit UNICEF’s climate programmes. The money raised will directly contribute to the climate fund which helps create a planet where every child can live in a safe, clean and sustainable environment through providing educational and healthcare schemes that directly benefit those most affected by climate change.

The donation from Formula E both raises awareness and aims to create the funds to support meaningful climate action. The unique installation brings to life the idea of creating a more sustainable future through upcycling used car parts and positioning future generations at the centre of the narrative. By offering meaningful support to a well established charity partner that aligns with its brand values, Formula E is able to support UNICEF in building a better, more sustainable future.