Mercedes-Benz Makes Record Sustainable Aviation Fuel Purchase to Cut Emissions

Mercedes-Benz has taken a major step in decarbonizing its logistics operations by completing the largest single-volume purchase of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) in the automotive sector. The deal, made through logistics partner DB Schenker, involves approximately 13,000 tons of SAF, which is expected to reduce CO₂ equivalent emissions by 40,000 tons. The fuel will be used for air freight routes from Frankfurt to Beijing and Shanghai.

This purchase is a cornerstone of Mercedes-Benz’s broader climate strategy, known as “Ambition 2039,” which targets a 60% reduction in logistics-related CO₂ emissions compared to 2021 levels. The company has committed to lowering emissions across all transport modes, with air freight identified as a high-impact area for intervention.

Sustainable Aviation Fuel, made from waste products such as used cooking oil, can reduce lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions by up to 80% compared to conventional jet fuel. While not a complete solution to aviation emissions, SAF is considered a crucial transition tool for reducing the environmental impact of global air logistics.

DB Schenker’s Global Board Member for Air & Ocean Freight, Thorsten Meincke, emphasized the significance of the agreement: “Our new biofuel agreement with Mercedes-Benz sets a new benchmark for sustainability commitments. By working together, we are actively and immediately reducing emissions in intercontinental supply chains.”

Elke Pusskeiler, Head of Supply Chain Management at Mercedes-Benz AG, noted that the SAF deal is part of a broader effort to avoid and reduce emissions throughout the company’s supply chain. “Utilizing 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,” she said.

The long-standing partnership between Mercedes-Benz and DB Schenker continues to evolve with a shared focus on sustainability. The deal not only represents a significant milestone in reducing transport emissions but also sets a precedent for other companies seeking to decarbonize their global supply chains.