DB Schenker and Microsoft’s Sustainable Logistics Ambition
DB Schenker is no stranger to pursuing partnerships and projects focused on ensuring a sustainable future for the logistics industry.
One recent example saw the company join forces with Trailer Dynamics and Contemporary Amperex Technology Ltd (CATL) to begin work on a groundbreaking initiative aimed at implementing battery-swapping technology (BST) for electric trailers in Europe.
Its latest foray into this space involves collaborating with Microsoft Cloud Logistics on the use of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) and sustainable marine fuel (SMF), highlighting a collective ambition to comprehensively reduce the environmental footprint of their transportation practices.
The alliance, which involves developing state-of-the-art logistics warehouses and introducing alternative energy trucks, marks a significant step towards lowering carbon emissions from logistics operations (Scope 3) compared to traditional fossil fuel-based transportation and aligns with overarching environmental objectives.
A commitment to sustainable transportation
DB Schenker and Microsoft Cloud Logistics collaboration will see SAF and SMF procured by the former and allocated to the latter’s inbound air and ocean shipments.
This is anticipated to result in a reduction of at least 15,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent (CO2e) emissions per year.
Elsewhere, DB Schenker, which implemented the use of Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO) for all ocean shipments from California to Texas earlier this year, has extended its sustainability efforts alongside Microsoft to land transport in Europe and North America in the form of HVO100 fuelling stations and electric vehicles.
“Microsoft and DB Schenker – that’s two global leaders united to reduce emissions in transportation and logistics,” says Jochen Thewes, CEO at DB Schenker. “Our cooperation is expected to demonstrate that significant CO2e savings are feasible already in today’s intercontinental supply chains.
Cliff Henson, CVP of Microsoft Cloud Supply Chain, adds: “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.”
Warehousing innovation
Advanced logistics warehouses – designed to streamline operations and enhance network efficiency while minimising 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, US, has achieved LEED Platinum-certification, the highest level of certification granted by the U.S. Green Building Council and a demonstration of DB Schenker's leadership in environmental and community stewardship.
In addition to this ‘SuperHub’, Microsoft Cloud Logistics’ Netherlands warehouse carries the BREEAM Certificate Level of ‘Excellent’, meaning it meets a high standard of energy efficiency, minimises environmental impact and enhances occupant wellbeing.
Jochen concludes: “The upgrade of the Netherlands warehouse to BREEAM Excellent status, and the Illinois, US SuperHub receiving the LEED Platinum Certification, are prime examples of our dedication to paving the way for more sustainable and innovative logistics solutions.”
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