How DHL makes Green Logistics a Core Priority with EVs

Operating logistics networks across more than 220 countries presents significant challenges for fleet electrification, carbon reduction and environmental stewardship.

DHL Group is reinforcing its commitment to sustainable growth through its Strategy 2030 and 2025 Annual Report: The Next Step. By embedding green logistics as a core strategic "fourth bottom line," the group is transforming its international network into a model of environmental and social responsibility, with electric vehicle deployment at the forefront of its decarbonisation strategy.

Despite challenging geopolitical shifts and fluctuating trade flows, DHL Group is continuing to pursue its goal of reaching net zero GHG emissions by 2050.

Emissions reduction and EV fleet expansion

The primary environmental impact of DHL Group's logistics business is the emission of GHGs directly related to its transport operations. In 2025, the Group achieved a 4.3% reduction in logistics-related GHG emissions, totalling 32.31 million tonnes of CO₂e.

This progress was driven by significant investments in sustainable technologies and fuels, with additional decarbonisation expenditures reaching €444m (US$515m) for the year. Central to this achievement was the expansion of the company's electric vehicle fleet, which now stands as one of the world's largest commercial EV deployments.

The group's own pick-up and delivery fleet grew to 45,356 e-vehicles, representing 46.2% of the total fleet. This substantial electrification of last-mile operations demonstrates the scalability of EV technology in commercial logistics applications.

The company's commitment to vehicle electrification is complemented by investments in charging infrastructure and renewable energy integration. A calculated 96.9% of the group's electricity is now sourced from renewable energy, with solar capacity expanding to more than 38.5 MWp, which could support the charging requirements of the growing electric fleet.

Beyond ground transport electrification, DHL has invested in alternative fuel technologies across its operations. In DHL's own air fleet, sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) usage rose to 10.0%. The share of sustainable fuel use (including mandatory blends) rose to 20.5% in Scope 1 and 6.9% in Scope 3.

According to the annual report, DHL states, "For fiscal year 2026, we expect Realised Decarbonisation Effects amounting to 2.5 million tonnes CO₂e."

Strategy 2030 framework

"With Strategy 2030, we have embedded Green Logistics as the fourth bottom line in our group strategy," says Tobias Meyer, CEO of DHL, in the company's annual report. "Our long-term goal remains unchanged: cutting greenhouse gas emissions from logistics to net zero by 2050."

"Our use of sustainable aviation fuels is substantially above the industry average and our fleet of electric vehicles is one of the world's largest. The actions we are taking are noticeably reducing our greenhouse gas emissions and strengthening our position as a leading provider of sustainable logistics solutions."

Central to Strategy 2030 are the four bottom lines: Employer of Choice, Provider of Choice, Investment of Choice and Green Logistics of Choice. These bottom lines could reflect the group's commitment to employee well-being, customer excellence, sustainable profitability and climate-neutral operations.

The strategy emphasises growth, sustainability and adaptability to emerging mega trends, with the company focusing on expanding capabilities, entering high-growth markets and investing in sectors such as Life Sciences & Healthcare, New Energy and ecommerce.

Climate resilience and risk management

DHL Group has established a comprehensive process to identify and assess climate-related impacts, risks and opportunities, integrating findings from its climate resilience analyses in line with the Task Force on Climate-Related Financial Disclosures (TCFD), the European Sustainability Reporting Standards (ESRS) and the EU Taxonomy.

Transition risks and opportunities, particularly those related to decarbonisation and GHG emissions, were analysed at divisional and Group levels. This framework could inform decisions around EV adoption rates, charging infrastructure investments and the integration of renewable energy sources to power the expanding electric fleet.

Physical climate risks, including extreme weather events and changing environmental conditions, are also assessed for their potential impact on DHL's global logistics infrastructure. The company evaluates how temperature fluctuations, flooding and other climate-related phenomena could affect warehouse operations, transport routes and delivery schedules across its international network.

Sustainability risks, including environmental impacts such as pollution, water use, circular economy and biodiversity, are incorporated into standard risk management processes and investment decisions. These integrated measures ensure that DHL not only mitigates climate and sustainability risks but also advances decarbonisation and long-term resilience across its operations.

"Looking to the future, the environment remains challenging," says Tobias in the report. "But we are well positioned and aiming for further sustainable growth."