South Africa’s coastline is legendary — think golden beaches, dramatic cliffs, and a biodiversity you won’t find anywhere else. But these same wonders are under pressure, from rising sea levels in the Eastern Cape to unpredictable weather in the Western Cape.
For South African businesses, responding to climate change isn’t just about ticking a box; it’s about protecting what makes this country unique and delivering on the expectations of a new generation of customers.
A National Push Toward Sustainability
President Ramaphosa’s plan for climate leadership is already changing the game. Through initiatives like the Renewable Energy Independent Power Producer Procurement Programme (REIPPPP), South Africa has attracted over R193 billion in investments and added more than 6,300 MW of renewable energy to the national grid. It’s a clear sign: South Africa is serious about building a green economy that creates jobs and protects the environment.
South Africans Expect More from Brands
Sustainability here isn’t a buzzword — it’s a movement. From Cape Town to Durban, consumers are making it clear: they want brands that care about the environment. Companies that take real action don’t just stand out; they secure trust and loyalty from customers who want to shop with a conscience. In a market where reputation matters, going green is fast becoming a must-have.
DHL’s GoGreen Portfolio: Simple Steps, Real Impact
Logistics keeps our economy moving, but it also comes with a carbon footprint. DHL recognises this and has been investing in sustainable logistics for years. The GoGreen portfolio is designed to make it easy for any business, big or small, to lower its environmental impact and show customers it’s serious about sustainability.
DHL GoGreen offers climate-neutral delivery by offsetting the carbon emissions from every shipment through certified global climate projects. It’s a straightforward way for South African businesses to demonstrate climate action — whether it’s supporting renewable energy or reforestation. With GoGreen, every parcel delivered is a step towards a carbon-neutral future.
GoGreen Plus: Beyond Offsetting
DHL’s GoGreen Plus programme takes things a step further.
Instead of simply offsetting emissions, GoGreen Plus lets South African companies actively reduce their supply chain emissions within DHL’s own operations. Through the “book & claim” model, you can invest in Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), Sustainable Marine Fuel, bio-LNG, and electric vehicles. The environmental benefits are allocated to your shipments, verified by independent auditors like SGS, and reported in line with global standards such as ISO 14083 and the GLEC Framework.
Why Sustainable Aviation Fuel Matters
SAF is a game changer for logistics. Made from renewable sources like used cooking oil or agricultural waste, it can cut greenhouse gas emissions by up to 80%, or even 94% in some cases. For South African businesses shipping overseas, using SAF means you can substantially reduce your Scope 3 emissions — those tricky, indirect emissions from outsourced transport — and make real progress towards net-zero targets.
Easy Wins for Local Businesses
You don’t have to be a giant corporation to make a difference. DHL’s Green Logistics Toolkit recommends practical steps: switch to LED lighting, install rooftop solar panels, or use warehouse energy-management systems to cut Scope 1 and 2 emissions. And by choosing GoGreen Plus when you ship, you’re taking action on Scope 3 — without needing to overhaul your entire supply chain. Eco-friendly packaging and AI-powered route optimisation add up to a lighter footprint and happier customers.
Global Proof, Local Opportunity
More than 40,000 businesses across Asia-Pacific are already using GoGreen Plus and seeing measurable results. In Malaysia, AFFIN Group is on track to cut shipment emissions by 70%. In Taiwan, CHIMEI Corporation is aiming for a full 100% reduction using SAF. These stories show what’s possible for South African exporters and importers looking to boost their sustainability credentials and stand out in a competitive global market.
Getting Started with DHL GoGreen Plus
Open a DHL Business Account: Head to DHL South Africa online to apply and access preferential rates and green logistics options.
Select GoGreen Plus in MyDHL+: When booking your shipments, simply choose GoGreen Plus and set your preferred emission reduction percentage.
Choose Your Reduction Level: Decide how far you want to go — start small or go all-in with 100% emission reduction.
Receive Independent Verification: All reductions are certified by an independent auditor, and you’ll get access to the GoGreen Dashboard for detailed, ISO-compliant carbon reporting.
Join the Movement for a Greener Tomorrow
The road to a sustainable future is a shared one. Every decision — from the products you source to how you deliver to customers — makes a difference. For South African brands, embracing green logistics isn’t just good business; it’s the path to long-term growth and genuine impact.
With DHL’s GoGreen Climate-Neutral and GoGreen Plus programmes, your sustainability journey is within reach. Partner with DHL to fulfil your customers’ orders, contribute to a greener South Africa, and build a brand that leads the way. Open your business account today and let’s take the first step towards a cleaner, brighter future — together.
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