I've always thought that Formula One should push the frontiers of automobile design, not just race. If elements of the technology are to be transferred to the rest us in "the real world", then the things that make a winner in F1 must be aligned with what we need outside. Better fuel economy is clearly desirable to cut operational costs, reduce emissions and conserve a non-renewable resource.
If F1rules were changed to make fuel economy a bigger factor in determining the outcome of a race, then clearly it would receive more attention from the constructors. This would be an additional variable in the mix which has the potential to make racing less predictable and therefore more exciting.
I don't think this in any way reduces the "purity" of F1, it aligns it better with the way the world has to move, and who knows there may be significant technological breakthroughs. It can be a win-win situation.

Eric Butterworth, Deep River, Canada/Ontario

This is an interesting move. There are plans for Formula 1 to use biofuels, most notably bioethanol. This major adjustment should show the world biofuels can work as gasoline substitute. Do remember though, it is a sport. Think about the impacts other sports have on the environment, such as footballers and their supporters. The transportation of supporters and all the equipment should not be forgotten. Formula 1 is not known for its efficiency. To impose impractical technology could detract from the spectacle of the sport. It is not to be classed as transport, as the drivers finish at the same physical place as they start. As a fan of the sport, I value it, much more than a transatlantic air journey in a sky submarine. Think of the value sports bring to our otherwise humdrum lives. As an environmentally aware person, I adore Formula 1, despite its excesses, and would not want a watered imitation of a race. This is a welcome move, but the essence of the sport should not be forgotten.

Lionel Tiger, Birmingham,

Guys guys, listen. As long as the FIA and F1 are offsetting their carbon emmissions, the event will stay the same. And rightly so - what use is going trackside to feel your eardrums pop and bleed from the sheer roar of the engines.
This will be more than acceptable to any environmental lobby as they will be aware that formula one is the breeding ground for advanced vehicle technology.
F1 cars are the most fuel efficient vehicles on the planet, burning almost 80% of the fuel injected into the tank. They can't get cranky over that boast since normal cars only use around 20%, which is worse than useless in my mind.
It's a shame that the FIA and F1 are so prudent about their non-political stand point as they could rub everyone's nose in it by proving they have been off-setting their carbon emmissions for this long. I think I'd be correct in saying they were one of the first to take action too!

Go McLaren!

Ben Miles, Melbourne, Australia