Finnair and DB Schenker have initiated their sustainability collaboration by signing an agreement for DB Schenker to purchase nearly 400 tons of scope 3 CO2e reductions, equaling approximately 120 tons of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) from Finnair.

Both companies are committed to increasing the use of sustainable aviation fuel to reduce the greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions related to air cargo transport. 

Sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), is a safe, certified, and renewable alternative to fossil jet fuel that we can use today to reduce the climate impact of air cargo transport. Compared to fossil jet fuel, SAF can reduce greenhouse gas emissions by up to 80% over its life cycle. 

Finnair has set a science-based target to reduce its carbon emissions intensity (CO2e/RTK) by 34.5% by 2033 from a 2023 baseline — the target has been validated by the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi). Like others in the industry, Finnair is aiming towards net-zero emissions by 2050. 

"Our toolkit for reaching the target comprises investing in sustainable aviation fuels beyond regulatory requirements, further improving operational efficiency, optimizing our network, and investing in new aircraft technology. This agreement with DB Schenker marks an important milestone in our decarbonisation efforts," said Gabriela Hiitola, senior vice president of Finnair Cargo.

"Air freight industry needs to address the climate challenge together, and partnering with like-minded stakeholders within the value chain is essential", she added.

By co-funding SAF with Finnair, DB Schenker receives a verified scope 3 emissions reduction certificate, proving its contribution to decreasing air cargo-related emissions. 

DB Schenker has been an early adopter of SAF since 2020 and seeks to steadily expand its portfolio of low-carbon air freight solutions to cargo shippers. 

"At DB Schenker, we recognize the urgency of decarbonizing air freight and are committed to driving meaningful change within the industry. Our collaboration with Finnair marks another step in scaling sustainable aviation fuel use to significantly reduce the industry's carbon footprint," said Björn Eckbauer, senior vice president of Global Operations & Procurement Air, DB Schenker.

"By investing in SAF, we are not only reducing our own carbon footprint but also empowering our customers with low-carbon air freight solutions", he added.

Finnair Cargo is one of the largest air cargo carriers in northern Europe. It has one of the most modern air cargo terminals, opened in 2018, and specializes in carrying temperature-controlled cargo, such as seafood, pharmaceuticals, and other perishables.