DHL Express and DHL Global Forwarding continue to grow theirs sustainability objectives through the renewal of the contract with IAG Cargo. Through the agreement, International Airlines Group’s (IAG) cargo handling division will use an additional 60 million liters of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) on behalf of DHL. This new alliance will cover the emissions of 2024 and 2025 and will mean the reduction of approximately 165,000 tonnes of CO2e emitted.
Its impact, comparable to the removal of a Boing 747-400 cargo plane from DHL’s intercontinental operations from the UK to the US, represents the largest SAF deal between an airline and a customer to date, underlining DHL’s leadership in sustainable solutions for air cargo transport.
The SAF used in this collaboration is certified by the International Sustainability & Carbon Certification (ISCC) and comes from sources such as used cooking oil and other food waste. Compared to conventional aviation fuel, this type of SAF has been shown to reduce emissions by 80% over its life cycle. The SAF used will be supplied mainly to London Heathrow Airport.
As Travis Cobb, executive vice president of DHL Express Global Aviation and Operations Network, explains: “We firmly believe that collaboration is the foundation of a more sustainable future. Both DHL and IAG Cargo share a strong commitment to reducing their carbon footprint. Therefore, we are pleased to be able to mark another milestone on our journey towards more sustainable air cargo.”.
For his part, Max Sauberschwarz, Global Director Air Cargo of DHL Global Forwarding, explains: “Currently SAF, in combination with our book and claim approach, is the most effective and cost-effective method of reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in air cargo. This solution allows us, in addition to reducing greenhouse gas emissions at source, to assign the reductions obtained to our customers through certificates. We are delighted that our long-term partner, IAG Cargo, shares our commitment and supports us in our mission to offer more sustainable transport solutions to our customers.».
For David Shepherd, CEO of IAG Cargo, “This partnership with DHL is a testament to our shared commitment to the decarbonisation of aviation. By using an additional 60 million liters of sustainable aviation fuel, we are not only reducing our carbon footprint by approximately 165,000 tonnes of CO2e, but we are demonstrating the power of collaboration to drive meaningful change. This reinforces IAG Cargo’s commitment to sustainable air cargo solutions and brings us closer to achieving our Group’s goal of net zero emissions by 2050..”
Sustainable aviation fuel as an integral part of DHL’s GoGreen Plus service
DHL, a pioneer in sustainable logistics, offers its customers the opportunity to reduce emissions from their supply chain by making it more sustainable. The GoGreen Plus service allows them to decarbonise their transport by opting for sustainable fuels and solutions with reduced greenhouse gas emissions for maritime, air and land transport.
Source: IAG Cargo
Interview Between Time.news Editor and Sustainable Aviation Fuel Expert
Editor: Welcome to Time.news! Today, we’re diving into an exciting collaboration in the realm of sustainable logistics. With us is Dr. Emily Parker, a recognized expert in sustainable aviation fuel and environmental policy. Thank you for joining us, Dr. Parker!
Dr. Parker: Thank you for having me! It’s a pleasure to be here.
Editor: Let’s jump right in! Recently, DHL Express and IAG Cargo announced a significant partnership involving the use of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF). Can you explain why this development is particularly noteworthy?
Dr. Parker: Absolutely! This agreement is remarkable not just because of its scale — 60 million liters of SAF — but also because it represents a landmark achievement in the aviation industry. The expected reduction of approximately 165,000 tonnes of CO2 emissions is akin to removing a Boeing 747-400 from operations, which is no small feat. It highlights how corporate alliances can drive substantial change in sustainability efforts within the logistics sector.
Editor: That’s impressive! You mentioned the scale. How does the use of SAF differ from conventional aviation fuel in terms of environmental impact?
Dr. Parker: Sustainable Aviation Fuel is a game-changer. It can reduce lifecycle emissions by up to 80% compared to traditional fossil fuels. The SAF used in this collaboration is derived from sustainable sources, such as used cooking oil and food waste, which is what makes it so effective. This not only mitigates emissions but also promotes a circular economy by repurposing waste materials.
Editor: Speaking of sustainability, DHL’s agreement with IAG Cargo reflects a broader commitment to environmental responsibility. How important is collaboration in achieving these sustainability goals?
Dr. Parker: Collaboration is essential. As Travis Cobb from DHL rightly pointed out, it’s the foundation of a sustainable future. By partnering with IAG Cargo, they’re leveraging each other’s resources and technology to maximize impact. The complexities of sustainability, especially in logistics, require united efforts. This team-based approach allows them to share best practices, reduce costs, and ultimately drive industry-wide change.
Editor: That’s a great point. And I noticed that the fuel will primarily be supplied to London Heathrow Airport. What are the implications for air cargo operations at such a significant hub?
Dr. Parker: Heathrow is one of the busiest airports in the world, so its engagement with SAF sends a strong message across the aviation industry. The usage of SAF there not only helps DHL meet its carbon reduction targets but also sets a benchmark for other airlines and freight companies. This could inspire more airports to facilitate the use of SAF and lead to broader adoption throughout the global aviation sector.
Editor: With SAF being certified by the International Sustainability & Carbon Certification, how does that assure stakeholders of its credibility?
Dr. Parker: Certification is crucial in building trust. The ISCC’s rigorous criteria ensure that the SAF meets specific sustainability standards and truly contributes to carbon reduction. This level of verification provides stakeholders—ranging from corporate partners to consumers—with confidence that they’re making environmentally responsible choices.
Editor: what does the future hold for SAF in the aviation industry? Are we likely to see more alliances like the one between DHL and IAG?
Dr. Parker: Definitely. The momentum for SAF is building as regulatory pressures increase and more companies commit to carbon neutrality. We can expect to see more partnerships forming as the industry navigates the challenges of scaling up SAF production. Innovations in technology and logistics will also enhance its viability. Ultimately, collaboration will play a pivotal role in advancing sustainable practices across the aviation spectrum.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Parker, for sharing your insights today. It’s clear that the integration of sustainable practices in aviation transportation is not just possible but is already taking shape through partnerships like DHL and IAG. We look forward to seeing how this unfolds!
Dr. Parker: Thank you for having me! I’m excited about the future of sustainable aviation and the role that innovation and collaboration will play.