Shein, Lufthansa Cargo sign MOU to explore initiatives promoting more sustainable air transportation

Photo: Lufthansa Cargo

The global online fashion and lifestyle retailer Shein and Lufthansa Cargo have signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to explore a range of initiatives to drive the adoption of sustainable solutions for air freight.

In the MOU signed Aug. 19, the two companies confirmed their intention to finalize the adoption of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) offsetting solutions for Shein deliveries within the next six months, as well as a range of other initiatives to promote the transition to renewable and lower-carbon energy sources for air-transport operations.

The initiative is aligned with Shein’s commitment to addressing its carbon footprint from transportation.

As part of this initiative, Lufthansa Cargo will provide high-quality proof-of-sustainability certificates for the used SAF quantities.

These certificates are based on externally verified standards and document emission reductions, compared to conventional jet fuel, in a traceable manner.

“Lufthansa Cargo has extensive experience in driving the adoption of SAF and will provide Shein with opportunities to adopt lower-carbon air-cargo options,” said Ethan Shen, Shein’s general manager of global fulfillment. “Through this partnership, we aim to pilot and gradually expand the use of SAF where feasible, while continuing to explore additional ways to reduce the carbon footprint across our delivery network. While the use of SAF is one step towards reducing our transportation and distribution emissions, we recognize it as part of a broader decarbonization strategy that should also include optimizing logistics, fleet efficiency and exploring other low-carbon solutions.”

Ashwin Bhat, CEO of Lufthansa Cargo, added, “Signing this memorandum with Shein represents Lufthansa Cargo’s commitment to implementing high-performance logistics solutions responsibly and with operational excellence. It demonstrates the importance of concrete measures and reliable implementation in the international air-freight business. Together with all stakeholders within the supply chain, we are driving the development of more sustainable global supply chains in line with our purpose—enabling global business.”

Additionally, the two signatories are exploring further areas of cooperation, such as knowledge exchanges and approaches to strengthen traceability and reporting of operational and environmental data.

According to Lufthansa Cargo, the MOU marks the beginning of a long-term collaboration between the two companies.