Kuehne+Nagel, LATAM Cargo and The Elite Flower have completed what they describe as Latin America's largest sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) operation to date, cutting an estimated 300 tonnes of CO₂e linked to transporting more than 495 tonnes of Colombian flowers to Miami for the Valentine’s Day peak.

The SAF‑based initiative, carried out using a Book‑and‑Claim model, reduced emissions associated with one of the floriculture sector’s busiest export periods, covering roughly 10 million stems shipped from Bogotá to Miami.

"Collaborating with our partners generates and drives positive and innovative changes in important industries like perishables and air logistics, where reducing carbon emissions is essential. We are proud of the continued commitment to expand this initiative year after year and to inspire more stakeholders in Latin America and globally to continue advancing decarbonisation initiatives in our supply chains through Book and Claim methodology," said Ana San Carlos, sustainability manager for Latin America at Kuehne+Nagel.  

Cristina Oñate, VP of Sustainability and Product at LATAM Cargo Group, noted that the agreement stems from a shared conviction of managing emissions from the aviation industry requires multiple solutions and collaboration.

"Together with our customers, we have taken another step towards more sustainable aviation by applying the environmental benefits of using Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) in the flower supply chain. The initiative demonstrates how reducing emissions further enhances the speed and reliability of air transport, which is key for fresh products such as flowers," she said.

Alvaro Camacho, Logistics Manager at The Elite Flower, said during the Valentine’s season, the company export nearly 40 million stems through LATAM Cargo.

"The incorporation of SAF into our logistics processes enables us to advance in reducing the carbon footprint of air transport, without compromising the quality or timeliness of our flower deliveries. This type of initiative reflects our contribution to a more sustainable floriculture industry, where operational efficiency and environmental care go hand in hand," he said.