Kuehne+Nagel has announced the launch of its carrier engagement sustainability programme as part of its sustainability initiative.

As part of the programme, Kuehne+Nagel has signed individual Memoranda of Understanding (MoU) agreements with 14 global airline carriers to advance sustainability initiatives and innovations around the world.

Kuehne+Nagel noted that this first-of-its-kind collaboration in the air logistics industry aims to reduce the environmental impact of airfreight transportation for customers. 

The global logistics and transportation company signed individual MoUs with American Airlines, Air Canada, Air France Cargo and KLM Cargo, Atlas Air, Azul, Cargolux, Cathay Cargo, Delta Air Lines, LATAM Airlines Group S.A., Lufthansa Cargo, Swiss International Air Lines, Turkish Airlines, and United Airlines. 

It said that by signing individual MoUs with airlines on four continents, Kuehne+Nagel is expanding its geographical reach for sustainability collaboration. 

The collaboration will focus on key areas to advance sustainability goals, including the use of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), decarbonization efforts, transparency in impact tracking, and a holistic approach to sustainability.
 

Fabiano Piccinno, Kuehne+Nagel's air logistics global head of sustainability, said the company’s asset-light approach makes collaboration with carriers essential to achieving its science-based targets.

"The signing of these MoUs represents a milestone for the industry and marks our joint commitment to supporting a sustainable future," Piccinno said.

"We are very excited about the new initiatives that will emerge out of this, ultimately, benefiting our customers."

The current individually signed MoUs are with carriers that cover approximately 50% of Kuehne+Nagel's emissions from air freight (based on emissions for full year 2024).

Kuehne+Nagel said the company aims to continue expanding its carrier sustainability engagement with major carrier partners to increase the amount of emissions covered.