Mercedes-Benz’s SAF Procurement Sets Sustainability Level

Sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) is becoming a key component in procurement strategies aimed at greener supply chains.

It not only supports businesses in achieving their environmental, social and governance (ESG) targets but also enhances supply chain resilience and provides a competitive advantage. As companies seek more sustainable sourcing solutions, SAF is emerging as a critical driver of low-carbon logistics.

In a significant step towards reducing carbon emissions, Mercedes-Benz has secured a record-breaking order of SAF for its export air freight shipments from Frankfurt to Beijing and Shanghai. The procurement of around 13,000 tonnes of SAF marks the largest single-volume order of its kind by a DB Schenker customer. This initiative will cut Mercedes-Benz’s CO2e emissions by 40,000 tonnes, reinforcing its commitment to sustainable logistics.

Thorsten Meincke, Global Board Member for Air & Ocean Freight at DB Schenker, highlights the long-term impact of the agreement: “Achieving carbon neutrality is a long-haul journey. Our new biofuel agreement with our trusted partner Mercedes-Benz sets a new benchmark for sustainability commitments.

"By working together, we are actively and immediately reducing emissions in intercontinental supply chains. This contract represents one of the largest-ever SAF deals in the entire automotive and logistics industries globally. I look forward to seeing more customers join us.”

By working together, we are actively and immediately reducing emissions in intercontinental supply chains. This contract represents one of the largest-ever SAF deals in the entire automotive and logistics industries globally. I look forward to seeing more customers join us.”

Strengthening Sustainable Supply Chains Through Procurement

Mercedes-Benz and DB Schenker have maintained a strong procurement and logistics partnership for decades, covering land, air and ocean transport, as well as warehouse management. In 2021, Mercedes-Benz became one of the first companies to utilise DB Schenker’s SAF-powered cargo flights. This latest order represents another milestone in their joint efforts to decarbonise supply chains.

With sustainability now at the core of corporate procurement strategies, Mercedes-Benz is setting a new industry benchmark by prioritising low-emission transport solutions.

Elke Pusskeiler, Head of Supply Chain Management at Mercedes-Benz, underlines this commitment: “As part of our Ambition 2039 for Mercedes-Benz Cars, we aim to reduce CO2 emissions in logistics by 60% compared to 2021. Our sustainability strategy focuses on CO2 avoidance and on the reduction of emissions for all modes of transport in inbound and outbound. Utilising sustainable aviation fuel for air freight allows us to cut emissions. Together with DB Schenker, we made another significant achievement in our efforts for sustainable logistics.”

This agreement not only demonstrates leadership in green logistics but also encourages other companies to integrate SAF into their procurement strategies. By leveraging sustainable sourcing, businesses can build more resilient supply chains while contributing to global decarbonisation efforts.

SAF’s Role in Green Logistics and Procurement Strategy

SAF is a renewable fuel derived from waste products such as agricultural and forestry residues, algae, used cooking oil and municipal solid waste. Unlike conventional jet fuel, SAF significantly reduces greenhouse gas emissions over its lifecycle, making it a key enabler of sustainable logistics.

A major advantage of SAF is its compatibility with existing aircraft and fuelling infrastructure, allowing for immediate adoption without the need for costly modifications. This makes it an attractive solution for procurement teams aiming to transition towards lower-carbon transport options while maintaining operational efficiency.

For companies focused on ESG compliance and supply chain sustainability, integrating SAF into their procurement strategies offers multiple benefits. By reducing reliance on fossil fuels and supporting the circular economy, SAF contributes to long-term carbon reduction goals while ensuring business continuity in an increasingly regulated environment.

The Impact of SAF Procurement on the Automotive Industry

The partnership between Mercedes-Benz and DB Schenker signals a broader shift in automotive procurement, where sustainable sourcing and logistics solutions are becoming non-negotiable. By investing in SAF, Mercedes-Benz is not only reducing its own carbon footprint but also setting a precedent for the industry.

Mercedes-Benz’s sustainability roadmap, ‘Ambition 2039,’ outlines its goal of achieving net carbon neutrality across its entire vehicle lifecycle and supply chain. To reach this target, the company is investing in recycled materials, fleet electrification and renewable energy. By 2030, more than 70% of its energy requirements are set to be met through solar and wind power.

By securing large-scale SAF procurement, Mercedes-Benz is demonstrating that sustainable sourcing is not just an ambition but a practical reality. This approach encourages other automotive manufacturers and logistics providers to follow suit, driving the industry towards a greener future.

As businesses face increasing pressure to decarbonise their supply chains, the Mercedes-Benz and DB Schenker agreement highlights the power of procurement in shaping a more sustainable logistics landscape. Or, as Pusskeiler puts it: “Together with DB Schenker, we made another significant achievement in our efforts for sustainable logistics.”

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