DHL Express and SHEIN Expand Partnership with SAF Push

Why It Matters

The deal provides a practical pathway for high‑volume e‑commerce to lower Scope 3 emissions, while showcasing a revenue‑generating green service for logistics providers.

Key Takeaways

• DHL's SAF use rose to 10% in 2025.
• SAF cuts lifecycle emissions by ~80% versus jet fuel.
• SHEIN leverages DHL to pilot SAF in e‑commerce logistics.
• GoGreen Plus offers “insetting” emissions reductions for customers.
• Partnership aims to scale SAF across global air cargo.

Pulse Analysis

The surge in cross‑border e‑commerce has intensified scrutiny of the carbon footprint of air freight, prompting carriers and retailers to seek low‑carbon alternatives. Sustainable aviation fuel, derived from waste oils and other renewable feedstocks, can slash lifecycle greenhouse‑gas emissions by roughly 80 % compared with conventional jet fuel. As governments tighten emissions standards and investors demand greener supply chains, the logistics sector is under pressure to demonstrate tangible climate action. The DHL‑SHEIN partnership therefore arrives at a pivotal moment when scalable SAF solutions could reshape global cargo emissions trajectories.

DHL Express introduced its GoGreen Plus programme in 2023, allowing customers to ‘inset’ emissions by purchasing SAF for specific shipments. The carrier reported that SAF accounted for about 10 % of its dedicated fleet’s fuel in 2025, up from 3.5 % the year before, indicating rapid adoption. By integrating SAF into SHEIN’s high‑volume international deliveries, DHL tests operational feasibility at scale while offering the retailer a credible pathway to reduce Scope 3 emissions. This collaboration also showcases how logistics firms can monetize sustainability services, creating new revenue streams and differentiating themselves in a crowded market.

For SHEIN, a fast‑fashion giant often criticized for its environmental impact, the SAF initiative signals a shift toward responsible growth. Embedding greener fuel into its supply chain helps the brand address consumer and regulator expectations, potentially enhancing loyalty and market access in regions with strict carbon policies. Moreover, the partnership may accelerate industry‑wide SAF deployment, as other e‑commerce platforms observe the practical benefits and cost structures. If successful, the model could become a template for aligning high‑speed delivery with climate targets, reinforcing the business case for sustainable logistics.