DHL Group and Neste are deepening their collaboration to slash emissions in logistics, with a strong focus on aviation operations.
The two companies have agreed to explore how Neste’s renewable solutions, specifically sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), can propel DHL towards its ambitious decarbonization targets for air and road transport.
This partnership underscores the critical role of SAF in decarbonizing the aviation sector, a notoriously challenging area to abate.
Commitment to 30% SAF by 2030
DHL Group has pledged to achieve net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. Interim targets for 2030 include electrifying two-thirds of its last-mile delivery vehicles and significantly increasing the use of sustainable fuels across all modes of transport.
Crucially, this includes a commitment to using SAF for over 30% of its aviation fuel by 2030. Recognizing the limited availability of SAF and the growing demand, DHL is partnering with Neste. The company is a leading producer of both renewable diesel and SAF, and will facilitate supply to accelerate the transition to cleaner aviation.
Uptake of 300,000 Tons of SAF
The cornerstone of this expanded collaboration is a proposed commercial model that centers on SAF. The agreement aims to secure a substantial supply of SAF for DHL’s air operations. The target is for DHL Group to purchase approximately 300,000 tons of neat (unblended) SAF annually from Neste by 2030.
This significant volume underscores the scale of DHL’s commitment to SAF and represents a major step towards decarbonizing its air freight operations. The agreement also allows for the sale and purchase of additional SAF volumes beyond the initial target, providing flexibility for future growth and further emission reductions.
Beyond SAF, DHL Group and Neste will also collaborate on exploring the use of renewable diesel for road transport. While aviation is a key focus, both companies recognize the need for a holistic approach to decarbonization across all transportation modes.
The use of renewable diesel in DHL’s ground fleet will contribute to reducing overall emissions. It further supports the company’s broader sustainability goals.
Partnership Comments
DHL Group
“This agreement with Neste is a pivotal step in our journey towards achieving net-zero emission logistics by 2050,” states Yin Zou, EVP Corporate Development at DHL Group.
“By partnering with a leading producer of renewable fuels, we can accelerate progress towards our interim targets. Together with Neste, we will develop innovative solutions that not only support our own sustainability ambitions but also enable our customers to reduce their environmental footprint.”
Neste
Carl Nyberg, Senior Vice President, Commercial, Renewable Products at Neste, adds comment. “We are thrilled to strengthen our existing cooperation with DHL Group through a comprehensive, joint approach to tackling greenhouse gas emissions in transportation.”
“This partnership provides us with a valuable opportunity to support DHL as a frontrunner in its sector. It provides our renewable fuels as a solution to reduce emissions on the road and, most importantly, in the air.
“SAF is crucial for decarbonizing aviation. We are committed to working with partners like DHL to increase its availability and adoption.”
Summary
The existing successful collaborations between the two companies provide a strong foundation for this expanded partnership. Neste and DHL Group have previously worked together on SAF deliveries. The latest initiative furthers their commitment to advancing the use of sustainable aviation fuel.
Furthermore, both companies played a key role in supporting the International Sustainability & Carbon Certification (ISCC). This has involved pioneering and testing the ISCC Credit Transfer System.
This system provides a transparent and credible mechanism for airlines, logistics providers, and corporate customers. It allows them to report and track emission reductions achieved through the use of SAF.
This collaborative history and shared vision position DHL and Neste to be at the forefront of the transition to sustainable aviation.
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