A sustainable supply chain integrates eco-friendly practices at every stage, from sourcing and manufacturing to packaging, transport, and delivery. It minimizes environmental impact while maintaining efficiency.
During India's peak seasons—such as Diwali, Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and the Christmas-New Year period—businesses experience a surge in consumer demand and delivery pressures, putting added strain on express courier services and supply chain networks.
However, while sales peak during these periods, maintaining sustainable logistics operations poses significant challenges due to increased resource consumption, waste generation, and the complexities involved in rapidly scaling operations.
As consumer awareness about environmental impact grows and India sets its sights on achieving net zero by 20701, it becomes increasingly essential for businesses to devise sustainable supply chain solutions and integrate these practices, especially during these peak seasons.
To help businesses navigate these complexities, we’ve outlined sustainable supply chain management strategies. These strategies help companies maintain eco-friendly operations while effectively meeting market demands.
The importance of sustainable supply chain management in global trade
According to reports by Forbes India, India is the third-largest emitter of greenhouse gases, pushing nearly 3 billion tonnes annually into the atmosphere as of mid-2024.2 Climate TRACE further reported that global greenhouse gas emissions in April 2025 totaled 5.16 billion tonnes of CO₂ equivalent, marking a 0.71% increase compared with April 2024.3 This stark reality spotlights the urgent need for sustainable practices across industries, particularly in the logistics sector.
With the international shipping industry alone accounting for approximately 3% of global emissions4, it becomes crucial for Indian companies to refine their supply chain management strategies to prevent further exacerbating these emissions.
This adjustment will help ensure environmental responsibility and enhance India's appeal to global consumers. In fact, according to PwC's 2024 Voice of the Consumer survey5, which gathered data across 31 countries and territories, 46% of global consumers are increasingly opting for sustainable products to reduce their environmental footprint, with 80% happy to pay more for sustainably sourced or produced goods, even as they face tighter budgets and higher living costs.
This consumer trend highlights the importance of Indian businesses integrating sustainable supply chain practices, to comply with international trade and sustainability standards and tap into the growing market of environmentally conscious consumers, thereby securing a competitive advantage in the global marketplace.
Why Indian exporters must act now
Indian exporters are operating in a global environment where sustainable logistics is no longer optional.
- Meet global green shipping standards: Regulations in major markets like the European Union and the United States increasingly demand sustainable supply chain compliance.
- Appeal to environmentally conscious buyers: Exporters who prioritise sustainability are more attractive to high-value customers in global markets.
- Build long-term brand trust: Sustainability shows commitment beyond profit, helping secure loyal customers.
- Differentiate in crowded peak-season marketplaces: Eco-friendly practices create a competitive edge when many brands compete for attention.
Acting now not only avoids future penalties but also positions exporters as proactive leaders in sustainable logistics.
Five strategies for a greener supply chain during peak season
Follow these five key strategies to ensure your logistics or supply chain management operations are not only efficient but also environmentally sustainable during the busy peak seasons:
Optimise delivery routes
Utilize advanced logistics software to plan the most efficient delivery routes, which is vital for managing the high volume of shipments during peak periods.
Switch to eco-friendly packaging
Shift to lighter, recyclable, or green packaging materials to minimize waste and transportation costs, which spike during high-demand seasons like Diwali, Christmas and New Year.
Maximize load efficiency
Consolidate shipments to ensure trucks and containers are filled, reducing the required trips. Add one line of DHL’s BBX solution here which is useful to shippers with multiple shipments to same customs union/country. DHL’s BreakBulk Express (BBX) further streamlines this by combining multiple shipments headed to the same customs union or country into one bulk clearance, saving time and reducing environmental impact.
Choose low-emission transport options
Electric, hybrid, or alternative fuel vehicles are increasingly viable for last-mile delivery. Using these options during peak periods can significantly reduce pollution levels.
InOffset carbon emissions with sustainable aviation fuel (SAF)
For international shipping, SAF helps lower emissions by replacing conventional jet fuel. Partnering with carriers offering SAF insetting solutions strengthens exporters’ sustainability commitments. Add a line about how DHL offers GGP solution.DHL Express makes this possible through its GoGreen Plus (GGP) solution, which allows shippers to actively reduce emissions by choosing SAF for their air freight.
Green products to differentiate your business
In crowded markets, standing out becomes essential, particularly with many similar products competing for attention. Green products can serve as a critical differentiator. As consumer demand for sustainability grows, businesses can capitalize on this trend by incorporating eco-friendly practices in their product strategies.
For instance, using biodegradable materials or recycled content in packaging can reduce waste and enhance a brand's reputation for environmental stewardship. Moreover, designs that feature reusable elements or are made from upcycled materials can attract eco-conscious consumers, effectively leveraging peak season shopping season to maximize impact and sales.
Integrating these green products and practices with sustainable shipping methods can set a business up for success, aligning with consumer expectations and market trends.
Challenges of peak season supply chain management in India
While sustainability is essential, exporters must acknowledge the hurdles specific to India.
- Higher packaging volumes: Increased orders generate more packaging waste, demanding better recycling systems.
- Road congestion: Urban traffic intensifies, lengthening delivery times, increasing fuel use, and making last-mile delivery slower and less predictable. Since last-mile logistics already account for a disproportionate share of emissions, congestion only worsens their environmental impact in crowded cities.
- Balancing speed and sustainability: Consumers expect fast deliveries, making it harder to slow operations for greener practices.
Overcoming these challenges requires investment in technology, collaboration with logistics partners, and a long-term sustainability mindset.
DHL Express India’s green logistics solutions
As businesses in India gear up for the peak shipping season, choosing the best sustainable logistics solutions can make a tangible difference. DHL Express India offers exporters proven services:
- DHL GoGreen Plus: A carbon insetting solution using sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) to reduce air freight emissions by up to 90%.6
- Carbon tracking and reporting: Tools that help companies measure and manage scope 3 emissions linked to shipments.
- Sustainable warehousing initiatives: Ongoing efforts to cut emissions in storage and handling.
These solutions help Indian exporters align with international sustainability standards and position their businesses for long-term global success.
To future-proof your supply chain and tap into sustainable international trade opportunities, open a business account with DHL Express today.
Frequently asked questions about sustainable supply chain strategies
Peak seasons create higher shipment volumes, which increase fuel use, packaging waste, and emissions. Sustainability ensures growth does not come at the cost of environmental damage.
They can optimise routes, switch to low-emission vehicles, consolidate shipments, use eco-friendly packaging, and partner with providers offering SAF.
Sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) is made from renewable resources and reduces emissions compared to traditional jet fuel. When used for air freight, it can lower carbon outputs by up to 90%.
While some practices may involve initial investment, they often reduce costs long-term through fuel savings, packaging efficiency, and stronger brand loyalty.
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