Science-based targets in the logistics industry
Customer: General Logistics Systems (GLS)
Category: Logistics
Date: April 2025
General Logistics Systems (GLS), one of the leading companies in parcel and express logistics, is pursuing an ambitious goal: by 2045, the company wants to operate in a completely climate-neutral manner – in other words, no longer cause any climate-damaging greenhouse gases or offset them completely.
GLS launched an extensive project together with the DFGE – Institute for Energy, Ecology and Economy to tackle this goal in a scientifically sound and strategically sensible way. The aim was to develop science-based climate targets. The focus was not only on long-term targets, but also on short-term measures and a sector-specific approach to reducing emissions in road transport.
Robert Groh
Director Corporate Environment & Climate Strategy at GLS
“DFGE managed to translate complex scientific approaches into clear, understandable language. This was enormously helpful for us – both in terms of strategic orientation and practical implementation.”
Challenges
Carbon accounting – between global diversity and data-driven precision
The development of the climate targets presented GLS with several key challenges. Recording indirect emissions – i.e. those generated by partners and subcontractors in the supply chain – was particularly challenging. These so-called Scope 3 emissions make up the majority of the carbon footprint, but are difficult to control and account for.
Added to this was the variety of vehicle types and operating models used in the different countries. This heterogeneity made it difficult to calculate and compare emissions data uniformly.
In order to create a reliable basis for the target, GLS also had to create a reliable climate balance with a meaningful reference year – a prerequisite for subsequent recognition by the Science-Based Targets Initiative (SBTi).
In addition to the methodological integration of the sector-based approach for road transport, the improvement of data quality was also crucial. Much of the information was initially incomplete, meaning that data collection and processing processes had to be optimized in parallel with the target definition.
Solution
Tailor-made strategies for lower emissions
Once the initial data and the carbon footprint had been compiled, the project team worked with GLS to develop specific ways to reduce emissions.
Various scenarios were calculated: Which measures would have the greatest effect? Where can GLS realistically start? Which strategy best suits the company’s structure – and how do these plans compare with other market players?
A particular focus was placed on road transport – the core area of GLS services. This involved analyzing not only how much CO₂ is currently emitted per transport service, but also how this figure can be reduced through targeted measures. These include more efficient vehicles, alternative drives, optimized routes or a switch to emission-free means of transport where possible.
This careful comparison of different options enabled GLS to make informed decisions and focus on measures that are both effective and economically viable.
Result
Validated climate targets and a clear direction
The collaboration with DFGE resulted in an important milestone: GLS was able to successfully define its science-based climate targets and have them officially validated by the Science-Based Targets Initiative (SBTi). The company now has clear, internationally recognized guidelines for its climate strategy – both for the coming years and for long-term change.
The initial focus is on significantly reducing emissions in the areas over which GLS has a direct influence – for example through its own buildings or company vehicles. At the same time, the company is also committed to measurably and consistently reducing the indirect emissions that arise along the entire supply chain. Road transportation in particular – as a central component of the service – is being made significantly more climate-friendly through specific measures.
In the long term, GLS is pursuing the goal of operating in a completely climate-neutral manner by 2045 at the latest – across all areas of the company. In doing so, the company is not only future-proofing itself, but also taking an active role in the transformation of the logistics industry towards greater sustainability.
Robert Groh
Director Corporate Environment & Climate Strategy at GLS
“DFGE has provided us with significant support with its expertise, not only in defining our climate targets, but also in the practical implementation of initial measures. We look forward to continuing on this successful path together.”
