DHL Global Forwarding decarbonises all LCL shipments globally

October 01, 2020: From January 1, 2021, DHL Global Forwarding will be neutralising the carbon emissions of all less-than-container load (LCL) ocean freight shipments. In line with Deutsche Post DHL Group's (DPDHL) ‘Mission 2050 -- Zero Emissions’, DHL is committed to lead the transition to clean and sustainable sea freight transport. The CO2 compensation for all LCL shipments will be achieved by using maritime biofuels, utilising existing and new partnerships.

"To fight against climate change, the transport sector needs true decarbonisation. For us at DHL Global Forwarding, sustainable fuel solutions are the key lever to change the fuel mix and ultimately reduce carbon emissions in ocean freight. This is why we have taken the decision to neutralise the carbon emission of all our LCL shipments. Even though we are in unprecedented times, due to the ongoing pandemic, we have to make sure that climate protection and sustainability efforts remain at the forefront,” commented Tim Scharwath, CEO, DHL Global Forwarding, Freight.

DHL Global Forwarding's new green service is not only another important milestone on group's journey towards zero emission logistics, but also helps customers reduce their carbon footprint. At no extra cost to the customer, the heavy oil that would ordinarily be used is replaced with sustainable marine biofuel onboard a preselected container vessel. In this way, true carbon neutralisation is achieved. The CO2-reduction benefits are allocated to the customer. In addition, DHL Global Forwarding has a GoGreen carrier evaluation programme, which allows the freight forwarder to give preference to carriers with strong environmental performance.

"The Asia Pacific region plays a key role in global trade and is in a unique position to advance the sustainability agenda in freight transportation. The introduction of our decarbonisation initiative is in line with the United Nation's 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, which has been adopted by many countries in the region, and we hope that our commitment will inspire other industry players and customers alike to demand greener services to build a sustainable future." said Kelvin Leung, CEO, DHL Global Forwarding Asia Pacific. 

Based on the principles ‘Burn Less, Burn Clean’, the engagement within Deutsche Post DHL Group's global GoGreen programme also aims to optimise the carbon efficiency of the company's transport network, fleet, and real estate.  This includes reducing energy consumption, increasing the use of renewable energy sources and fuels, and optimizing transportation networks as well as pick-up and delivery routing. Furthermore, transport subcontractors are encouraged to acquire low-emission vehicles and employees are educated to apply environmentally friendly thinking, through training and other activities.