DHL Global Forwarding and Air France KLM Martinair Cargo (AFKLMP) have expanded their decarbonisation partnership with a new framework agreement focused on emission reduction rights and scalable sustainable aviation fuel adoption.
The agreement, signed in Amsterdam on 18 December 2025, builds on the companies’ collaboration first established in 2022. DHL signed a work order for 35,000 metric tonnes of well-to-wheel CO₂e emission reduction rights, moving beyond traditional sustainable aviation fuel procurement to a structured, long-term approach with digital verification.
Book-and-Claim Models Drive Scalability
The partnership introduces a clear focus on market-ready book-and-claim models. These models enable businesses to access verified emission reductions on routes where sustainable fuels are not yet physically available, providing predictability and transparency across the air freight value chain.
“This framework agreement shows what collaborative decarbonisation in air freight can look like. Emission Reduction Rights provide predictability, scalability, and transparency – three critical factors for sustainable aviation fuels to make a real impact within the market.”
– Henk Venema, Executive Vice President of Global Air Freight at DHL Global Forwarding
The approach ensures that forwarders of all sizes can reduce Scope 3 emissions arising from upstream and downstream transportation, even when operating on trade lanes without immediate access to sustainable aviation fuel.
Supporting Industry-Wide Decarbonisation Targets
The agreement plays a central role in DHL Group’s aim to increase sustainable aviation fuel use to 30 per cent by 2030. AFKLMP has been a top-performing partner in DHL’s GoGreen Carrier Evaluation Programme and has maintained its position as a leading carrier for over five years.
“We are proud to renew this partnership with DHL Global Forwarding. Our shared ambition and continued collaboration on SAF are fundamental to scaling the solutions needed to reduce the carbon footprint of the air freight industry.”
– GertJan Roelands, Senior Vice President Commercial at Air France KLM Martinair Cargo
What This Means for Freight Forwarders
The partnership establishes a foundation that can serve as a model for the entire industry. Key benefits include:
- Predictable emission reductions through verified book-and-claim mechanisms
- Access to sustainable solutions on routes without physical SAF availability
- Transparent carbon accounting for client reporting and compliance
- Scalable frameworks that support long-term decarbonisation commitments
Both companies participate in joint industry initiatives to promote transparency and practical solutions for sustainable air freight. The agreement reflects mutual trust, operational commitment, and a firm belief that close cooperation drives meaningful change across the air freight value chain.
As sustainability moves from voluntary initiatives to procurement requirements, forwarders with access to scalable carbon reduction programmes will gain an advantage in tenders and long-term contracts. Agreements like this signal how the industry is moving from pilot projects to structured commercial frameworks.
For freight forwarders, the shift is clear: sustainability is becoming part of the quoting conversation alongside price, transit time and reliability.
