DB Schenker, Microsoft Cloud Logistics collaborate on SAF, marine biofuel

DB Schenker announced Sept. 26 that it is collaborating with Microsoft Cloud Logistics for the use of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) and sustainable marine fuel, highlighting their collective ambition to comprehensively reduce the environmental footprint of their transportation practices.

This pivotal effort also includes building best-in-class logistics warehouses and implementing alternative-energy trucks.

It signifies an important step towards reducing the carbon emissions associated with their logistics operations (scope 3) compared to transportation associated with conventional fossil-based fuels and thus supports their overarching environmental sustainability goals.

“Microsoft and DB Schenker, that’s two global leaders united to reduce emissions in transportation and logistics,” said Jochen Thewes, CEO of DB Schenker. “Our cooperation is expected to demonstrate that significant CO2e-savings are feasible already in today’s intercontinental supply chains. The upgrade of the Netherlands warehouse to BREEAM Excellent status and the Illinois SuperHub receiving the LEED Platinum Certification are prime examples of our dedication to paving the way for more sustainable and innovative logistics solutions.”

Cliff Henson with Microsoft Cloud Supply Chain added, “Microsoft Cloud Logistics is committed to leading the way in sustainable logistics. Our collaboration with DB Schenker has enabled the development of cutting-edge sustainable warehouses along with innovative fuel strategies across all modes of freight, exemplifying our dedication to setting industry standards in the logistics environmental-sustainability arena. These efforts mark a significant step forward in our efforts to reduce our environmental impacts in line with Microsoft’s 2030 sustainability commitments.”

Sustainable aviation and maritime fuels will be procured by DB Schenker and allocated to Microsoft Cloud Logistics’ inbound air and ocean shipments.

This is anticipated to result in a reduction of at least 15.000 tons of CO2e-emissions per year.

In March, DB Schenker also implemented the use of hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO) for all ocean shipments traveling from California to Texas.

In addition, DB Schenker has extended its environmental-sustainability efforts with Microsoft Cloud to land transport in Europe and North America with HVO100 fueling stations and electric vehicles.

Furthermore, advanced-logistics warehouses, designed to streamline operations and enhance network efficiency while minimizing environmental impact using renewable energies, are at the heart of DB Schenker and Microsoft Cloud’s collaborative efforts.

DB Schenker and Microsoft Cloud Logistics’ facility in Illinois achieved LEED Platinum certification, which is the highest level of certification granted by the U.S. Green Building Council and demonstrates DB Schenker’s leadership in environmental and community stewardship.

In addition to the SuperHub in the United States, Microsoft Cloud Logistics’ Netherlands warehouse carries the BREEAM Certificate Level of “Excellent,” thus ensuring these warehouses meet high standards of energy efficiency, minimizing environmental impact and enhancing occupant wellbeing.