Since 1979, DHL has significantly contributed to streamlining India's imports and exports1, supporting the nation's connectivity with global markets. Yet, with growing environmental concerns, the logistics and shipping sector is often scrutinized for its role in contributing to carbon emissions.
Projections by the European Environment Agency suggest that, by 2050, without significant changes to current transportation and operational practices, global logistics could account for 40% of global carbon emissions.
While India’s transportation emissions were 0.21 metric tons per capita in 2022, relatively lower than those of countries like the United States (5.13), Saudi Arabia (3.94), and China (0.62), sustained efforts are essential to minimize emissions further as the economy grows.
DHL Express launched the GoGreen Plus service as a step towards environmental responsibility and promoting sustainability in shipping . It provides businesses and customers with a way to reduce their carbon footprint2.
Understanding DHL GoGreen Plus
DHL's GoGreen Plus is a forward-thinking service that enhances sustainable logistics by allowing businesses to reduce (inset) their carbon emissions by up to 90% through Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF). SAF is a greener alternative to traditional jet fuels, made from renewable resources like waste oils and agricultural residues. This offering allows to reduce greenhouse gas emissions3 during flights and significantly reduces the lifecycle emissions of aviation fuels, diminishing them by up to 80%.
Notably, the DHL GoGreen Plus service operates on the carbon "insetting" principle rather than offsetting. This means it focuses on reducing emissions within the company’s operations and supply chain rather than compensating externally.
Emissions typically fall into three categories, each playing a critical role in a company’s overall carbon footprint:
- Scope 1: Includes direct emissions from onsite energy consumption (e.g., fuel burned in company vehicles or machinery) and materials processing (e.g., emissions from industrial processes at company-owned facilities).
- Scope 2: Includes indirect emissions from the generation of purchased electricity the company consumes.
- Scope 3: Includes all other indirect emissions across a company’s supply chain, such as emissions from transportation and processing of sold products. Scope 3 represents the largest share of emissions, accounting for 65% to 95% of a company's total carbon footprint. DHL’s GoGreen Plus service helps reduce these Scope 3 emissions by using Sustainable Aviation Fuel for shipments, directly lowering emissions from transportation and distribution within the supply chain.
Moreover, businesses opting for GoGreen Plus receive SGS-validated4 certificates showing their CO2 reduction, which can be essential for complying with emerging CO2 reporting requirements.
DHL Express’s carbon insetting solutions
Beyond the use of SAF in our GoGreen Plus service, DHL Express incorporates a variety of strategies to ensure a comprehensive approach to carbon insetting:
- Sustainable packaging: DHL Express integrates eco-friendly materials into its packaging solutions, reducing the use of non-renewable resources and minimizing waste production in the logistics chain.
- Electric fleet: DHL Express is increasingly deploying electric vehicles across its delivery and courier pickup services to lower ground operations emissions. This shift to an electric fleet supports the reduction of direct emissions from traditional combustion engines, promoting eco-friendly delivery practices.
- Route optimization: DHL Express uses advanced tracking technology and algorithms to provide real-time visibility into delivery routes. This minimizes unnecessary travel, thereby reducing fuel consumption and associated emissions when shipping in India.
- Green hub operations: Installation of solar panels at DHL facilities harnesses renewable energy, reducing reliance on fossil fuels for power needs.
These measures collectively enhance DHL Express’s commitment to sustainable logistics.
How customer expectations for sustainability are shaping business strategies
In today’s market, sustainability is no longer a nice-to-have—it’s becoming a priority for consumers. Many buyers are now actively seeking out brands that align with their environmental values, whether through the products they sell or their operational practices.
In fact, research reveals that 50% of digital customers now consider a company’s sustainability practices before making a purchase. In comparison, about 80% of consumers are more likely to remain loyal to companies that are committed to sustainability.
As customer expectations evolve, businesses are pushed to adapt, leading to profound shifts in corporate strategies. Companies are embedding sustainability into the core of their business models, going beyond simple compliance to embracing genuine sustainability as a driver of innovation and market differentiation. This includes revamping product lines to include greener options and overhauling logistics and supply chains to be more transparent and less environmentally intensive. Additionally, it involves investing heavily in technologies that reduce environmental impact across all production phases.
Notably, the rapid growth of e-commerce continues to be a key driver in shaping the logistics sector. Sales in this space are projected to surpass US$8.0 trillion by 2027, fueling the expansion of global logistics operations. However, this fast-paced growth also contributes to rising carbon emissions, with increasing demand for goods and transportation driving a larger environmental footprint across the supply chain.
To address this issue, businesses in India can leverage DHL’s GoGreen Plus service, which provides sustainable shipping solutions that demonstrate their commitment to environmental stewardship. This attracts a growing number of environmentally conscious customers and fosters deep loyalty to their brand, enhancing their competitive edge in a market that increasingly values sustainability.
How to use DHL GoGreen Plus
- Log into your account MyDHL+ account.
- Once logged in, navigate to the "Create a Shipment" section and enter all the necessary details for your shipment.
- When booking your shipment, look for the 'GoGreen Plus' box under 'Optional Services'. Tick this box to opt into the service.
- Review all details to ensure they are correct, then proceed to complete your shipment.
If you are a business account holder, DHL Express provides the additional service of customizing the carbon reduction percentage. Contact DHL’s certified international specialists, who will work with you to tailor this percentage according to your business's specific sustainability goals and needs.
Commit to a greener future with DHL Express
Embrace sustainability in your shipping operations by choosing DHL Express India's GoGreen Plus service. This environmentally friendly delivery service option is available in 220 countries and territories, ensuring that your commitment to sustainability can be maintained no matter where your business reaches.
Join the global movement towards a greener future — Choose DHL Express as your courier service provider in India for eco-friendly shipping solutions that support your sustainability goals with every package sent.
