Deutsche Post DHL Group achieves carbon efficiency target early, sets ambitious new goals

In 2016, Deutsche Post DHL Group achieved its target of improving the carbon efficiency of its operations by 30% compared to a 2007 baseline. The Group achieved this goal an impressive four years ahead of schedule, underlining the success of its ‘GoGreen’ environmental protection plan. Following this achievement, Deutsche Post DHL Group has established a target to reduce all logistics-related emissions to zero by 2050.

Under the GoGreen programme, the Group has introduced numerous emissions-reducing initiatives in recent years, including supplier engagement aimed at optimising the Group’s logistics network; the roll out of energy efficient lighting systems at production facilities and upgrading the Group’s aircraft and ground vehicle fleets with newer, more efficient equipment.

One of the most important initiatives has been the integration of electric vehicles into Deutsche Post DHL Group’s logistics network. The Group designed and produced its own purpose-built electric-powered delivery vehicle, the StreetScooter. The roll out of the vehicle has been a huge success – at the end of 2016, 2,500 StreetScooters have been in operation across Germany, and the Group plans to double this number by the end of 2017.

Following the early achievement of its carbon efficiency target, Deutsche Post DHL Group has established a new goal of reducing all logistics-related emissions to zero by 2050. This objective is supported by four interim milestones, to be achieved by 2025. These are:

  •  Increasing the carbon efficiency of its own activities and those of its transport subcontractors by 50%, compared to the 2007 baseline.
  • Implementing clean transport solutions at the local level, operating 70% of its own first and last mile services with clean pick-up and delivery solutions.
  • Incorporating Green solutions in over 50% of sales.
  • Training 80% of its employees to become certified GoGreen specialists and get them involved in environmental and climate protection activities. This includes joining partners to plant 1m trees every year to protect the forests.

To achieve these ambitious goals, the Group will undertake a range of measures, including the increased use of its StreetScooter vehicle; training 80% of its workforce to become specialists in green logistics by 2025; and continuing to develop climate neutral and circular economy solutions to support the climate efficiency efforts of the Group’s customers.