DHL Express' impact on Sustainable Aviation Fuel and greener logistics

Sustainability has transformed from a mere trend into a critical business priority in logistics. As a global leader in the industry, DHL Express recognises the urgency of this shift and is proactively embracing innovative solutions to minimise its environmental impact. A cornerstone of this commitment is the integration of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) into operations, a move that signals a step towards a greener future for logistics. This blog delves into the significance of SAF, spotlights DHL Express' leadership in its adoption, and explores its broader implications for the logistics industry.

What is Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF)?

Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) is a low-carbon alternative to conventional jet fuels, offering a viable pathway towards decarbonising the aviation industry. Made from renewable resources such as municipal solid waste, woody biomass, and used cooking oil, SAF represents a significant step towards greener aviation.

In contrast to traditional jet fuels sourced from fossil fuels, SAF boasts several distinct advantages. Primarily, its feedstocks originate from sustainable sources, reducing reliance on finite resources. Additionally, SAF production employs methods like hydroprocessing and gasification, which are inherently more environmentally friendly than the refining processes used for conventional fuels.

What's more, the environmental benefits of SAF are compelling. It has the potential to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by up to 80%, a crucial step towards achieving carbon-neutral flights. Moreover, SAF produces lower particulate emissions, contributing to cleaner air quality.

However, the most noteworthy feature of SAF is its compatibility with existing aircraft and infrastructure. Its "drop-in" fuel properties allow it to seamlessly integrate into current aviation operations without necessitating modifications to aircraft engines or fuel systems. This compatibility streamlines the transition to sustainable aviation, making it a practical and readily implementable solution.

SAF production and technology

The production of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) is a testament to innovation and technological advancement within the renewable energy sector. It involves a variety of sophisticated methods and utilises a diverse range of feedstocks.

Among the prominent production methods are:

• Hydroprocessed Esters and Fatty Acids (HEFA): This process converts fats, oils, and greases into high-quality SAF through hydrogenation.
• Fischer-Tropsch synthesis: This method transforms municipal solid waste or woody biomass into synthetic gas (syngas), which is then converted into liquid hydrocarbons suitable for aviation fuel.
• Alcohol-to-Jet (ATJ) conversion: This pathway produces SAF from alcohols derived from biomass or other renewable sources.

The feedstocks employed in SAF production are equally diverse and sustainable, including:

• Municipal solid waste: A readily available and renewable resource that can be diverted from landfills and transformed into valuable fuel.
• Woody biomass: Residues from forestry and agricultural activities that can be sustainably sourced and converted into SAF.
• Fats, oils, and greases: Waste products from various industries that can be repurposed as feedstocks for SAF production.

To ensure quality and safety, SAF production adheres to stringent industry standards, notably ASTM D7566 and D1655. ASTM D7566 sets the specifications for aviation turbine fuels containing synthesised hydrocarbons, outlining approved SAF blends and their allowable percentage when mixed with conventional jet fuel. ASTM D1655, on the other hand, permits the co-processing of biomass feedstocks at petroleum refineries, allowing for SAF blends of up to 5%. These standards guarantee that SAF meets the rigorous requirements of the aviation industry, ensuring compatibility with existing infrastructure, safety in flight operations, and optimal engine performance.

Furthermore, ongoing technological advancements continually enhance the efficiency and scalability of SAF production. Breakthroughs in catalyst design and fermentation processes have significantly boosted efficiency and scalability, while innovations in feedstock processing — like advanced pyrolysis and gasification — have streamlined the conversion of raw materials into usable fuel. Refined production techniques such as hydroprocessing and advanced bio-refining have also led to cost reductions and increased yields. This progress is pivotal in making SAF a commercially viable and increasingly accessible alternative to conventional airplane fuels, accelerating the aviation industry's transition towards a more sustainable future.

DHL Express’ commitment to SAF and sustainable practices

DHL Express is a pioneer in sustainable logistics, actively integrating Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) into its operations as a core element of its comprehensive GoGreen strategy. The company's substantial investments in SAF and its proactive participation in sustainability initiatives underscore its unwavering commitment to reducing carbon emissions and fostering eco-conscious practices throughout the logistics industry.

A flagship example is the DHL GoGreen Plus service, which empowers customers to make a conscious choice for greener logistics by opting for shipments powered by SAF. This service not only directly reduces carbon emissions through the use of green aviation fuel but also supports additional carbon offsetting projects, further contributing to a more sustainable future.

Moreover, DHL's strategic partnership with Standard Chartered to co-invest in SAF exemplifies the tangible impact of such collaborations, with the potential to reduce aviation fuel lifecycle emissions by up to 80%. Alongside that, DHL's active engagement in influential events like the Era of Sustainable Logistics Global Summit in Valencia, Spain, in 2023 further reinforces its dedication to shaping a greener future. 

Through these multifaceted efforts, DHL Express exemplifies its leadership in advancing a more sustainable logistics landscape. By embracing SAF and championing eco-conscious practices, DHL Express is paving the way for a future where environmental responsibility and operational excellence go hand in hand.

Partner with DHL Express Vietnam for a greener tomorrow

The adoption of sustainable practices in logistics, such as utilising Sustainable Aviation Fuel, is not just an environmental imperative; it's also a strategic business decision. By reducing their carbon footprint, companies contribute to a healthier planet and gain a competitive edge.

DHL Express Vietnam is at the forefront of this movement towards green logistics, offering innovative solutions and a robust global network to facilitate eco-conscious international shipping, including specialised services for shipping to Vietnam. Our expertise in customs clearance, express delivery, and end-to-end tracking ensures your business can seamlessly adopt sustainable practices while maintaining operational efficiency. By partnering with us, your business can actively participate in building a greener future.

Open a DHL Express business account today for eco-friendly shipping and be part of the solution for a greener tomorrow.