Building for People and Planet

If you unpack the word “sustainability,” you’ll find there’s much more to it than reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. Sustainable business is about future-proofing your operations.

At DHL Group, we have a three-pronged approach to sustainability: Environment, Social, and Governance. That means when we build or renovate – whether it’s a warehouse, distribution center, or office building – we aim to integrate all three.

But designing facilities that reduce environmental impact while creating spaces where people thrive is no easy undertaking. There’s a lot to consider. The challenge is magnified in modern, urban hubs like Singapore, where space is limited, expectations for sustainability are high, and competition for talent is fierce.

In Singapore, we set out to transform an aging facility into a cutting-edge distribution center that would minimize environmental impact while maximizing comfort and collaboration. We’d say the project was a success. Read on to learn more.

Located in one of Southeast Asia’s top logistics hubs, the revamped DHL Global Forwarding distribution center brings together multiple DHL operations under one roof. It combines a six-floor office block with a three-floor bonded warehouse and a cross-dock facility.

The facility is designed to set a standard for innovation and sustainability in logistics. It now features a long list of advanced installations aimed at reducing its environmental footprint:

• A 641kWp photovoltaic (PV) system that generates a significant share of the site’s electricity.
• Intelligent LED lighting that enhances the work environment while reducing energy consumption.
• An efficient air-cooling system that ensures optimal conditions for both our people and stored products.
• Double glazing and low-E glass curtain walls that minimize heat gain, lowering the building’s cooling needs.
• Electric vehicle (EV) charging stations for both cars and trucks.
• A centralized building management system that monitors and optimizes energy use in real time.

Just as much care went into creating a place where people enjoy working. The office space is modern and spacious, designed to provide comfort while encouraging collaboration, creativity, and productivity. From ergonomic workspaces to inviting shared areas, every detail supports a dynamic work culture.

See for yourself:

The modernized distribution center in Singapore marks a significant milestone for DHL Global Forwarding. It’s an investment in the future – one that delivers lasting environmental, business, and social value. While the facility’s sustainable solutions reduce our GHG emissions, the energy-efficient technologies are projected to save over €380,000 annually.

Meanwhile, our people benefit from a comfortable, modern work environment that fosters collaboration, efficiency, and overall well-being – crucial factors for attracting and retaining talent in one of Asia’s most competitive labor markets.

The facility also achieved Green Mark GoldPLUS certification, which is the highest attainable rating of this type of building and operation.

Creating a facility that is both environmentally responsible and people-centric doesn’t happen by accident. Here are four key takeaways:

• Sustainability is holistic: A building’s impact on people is just as important as its impact on the environment.
• Technology powers sustainability: Smart energy systems are key to achieving efficiency and energy goals.
• Future-proofing adds value: Investing in resilient, sustainable infrastructure delivers long-term operational and financial benefits.
• Teamwork is essential: Close collaboration between our regional and group teams made all the difference.

The modernized DHL Global Forwarding distribution center in Singapore proves that logistics facilities of the future can deliver for both the environment and the people who work in them. It’s a powerful example of how we’re making our business more sustainable – one building at a time.