The global online fashion and lifestyle retailer Shein and Lufthansa Cargo have signed a memorandum of understanding to develop sustainable solutions in air cargo transport, according to a press release dated August 20. The aim of the agreement is to define within the next six months initial concrete measures, including in particular the use of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) for Shein shipments.
The planned initiatives relate to Shein's goal of reducing transport-related CO2 emissions.
Lufthansa Cargo will issue so-called “Proof of Sustainability” certificates for the use of SAF, which are based on externally verified standards and document the savings compared with conventional kerosene. The subject of the collaboration, according to both companies, is in addition to SAF also fleet efficiency measures and the optimization of logistical processes.
“Lufthansa Cargo has extensive experience in using SAF and will offer Shein opportunities to use CO2-lower-emission air cargo options,” said Ethan
Shen, General Manager of Global Fulfillment at Shein. “With this partnership, we intend to pilot the use of SAF and gradually expand it wherever possible. At the same time, we will explore further opportunities to reduce our CO2 footprint in the supply network.”
Lufthansa Cargo also sees the agreement as an important step.
“The signing of this agreement with Shein shows that Lufthansa Cargo is committed to the responsible implementation of high-performance logistics solutions
with operational excellence. It underscores the importance of concrete measures and reliable implementation in international air cargo business,” explained Ashwin Bhat, CEO of Lufthansa Cargo.
In addition, both companies are examining whether they can collaborate in other areas. This includes knowledge transfer as well as the development of approaches for better traceability and capture of operational and environmental data. According to the partners, the memorandum of understanding marks the outset of a long-term cooperation.