Environmental activists warn: Jade Race endangers nature conservation!

Environmental activists warn: Jade Race endangers nature conservation!

From July 18th to 20th, 2025, things will get going again in Mariensiel: The Jade Race returns after a five-year break and promises action for motorsport enthusiasts. However, the organizers are in the midst of controversy, with environmentalists from Friesland and Wilhelmshaven expressing strong criticism of the event. This is one of the largest drag race events in Europe and takes place at the airfield in Mariensiel, where fans and drivers can look forward to a spectacular weekend.

The criticism comes from local associations of the German Nature Conservation Association (Nabu) from Wilhelmshaven, Sande, Jever and Schortens as well as the Wilhelmshaven-Friesland regional group of “Scientists for Future”. In a joint poster campaign, they demand: “No race, no pollution” – a clear appeal that puts the protection of the UNESCO Wadden Sea World Heritage Site at the forefront. According to the press release, these votes were signed by Konrad Sieg, Fritz Santjer, Janna Brandenburg and Stefanie Eilers.

Criticism of environmental damage

Opponents of the Jade Race argue that the event is considered anachronistic. They criticize the use of environmentally harmful technologies and demand modern solutions such as the use of electric motors. Noise, the smell of petrol and rubber abrasion are highlighted as significant negative impacts of the event. Microplastic pollution and noise in particular are perceived as unnecessary burdens on the environment.

“We would like to set an example for environmental protection and appeal to politicians to reject similar events,” say the activists. They suggest alternative concepts that are not only more environmentally friendly but could also promote tourism, for example through cycling campaigns that involve the whole family.

Jade Race in the focus of the motorsport community

The event itself has received political backing and will continue to take place regularly in the future, the organizers report on their official website. Registrations are already possible, but places for participants and camping are limited. The exact program is currently being worked out, but the anticipation is palpable as the event will take place in its usual form.

An interesting aspect in the debate about reduced environmental impact is a current study by the German Motor Sport Federation (DMSB). This shows that emissions from motorsport events are primarily caused by visitor traffic. According to the study, motorsport activities generate only five to eight percent of total emissions; The majority is due to the viewers. Overall, motorsport events generate between 45,000 and 200,000 tons of CO2 annually, which is not above average compared to other major events. The DMSB is also planning a comprehensive sustainability strategy to further promote environmental protection and is starting to continuously monitor the environmental impact of motorsport in Germany.

How the reviews and the organizers' two-pronged approach will develop remains to be seen. The situation surrounding the Jade Race remains exciting – not only for motorsport fans, but also for everyone who is committed to protecting our environment.

For more information on event details, visit the official Jade Race website.

Read more about the environmental protection study on the DMSB homepage.

You can find reporting on the criticism and protest actions at NWZ Online.