In an era where sustainability is not just a choice but a necessity, companies worldwide are striving to align their operations with environmentally friendly and socially responsible practices. Among these forward-thinking entities, PostNL is leading sustainable innovation in the logistics and transport sector. With a robust strategy that encompasses environmental stewardship, social responsibility, and economic viability, PostNL has not only secured its position as a leader in sustainability but also as a model for other businesses aiming to make a positive impact on the planet and society.
Aerial view of a delivery car driving on the road along a green deciduous forest. AI generated picture.
PostNL's commitment to sustainability has been recognised by S&P Global in its Dow Jones Sustainability Index (DJSI), where it retains a top 3 position among the world’s most sustainable transport and logistics companies. This accolade is a testament to PostNL's enduring efforts and success in embedding sustainability into its core operations. Additionally, the company's dedication has been further acknowledged with a Gold certificate from Ecovadis, reinforcing its status as a sustainability champion.
Herna Verhagen, PostNL’s CEO, remarks on the recognition, ‘Our commitment to social responsibility, focusing on sustainability for people, planet and society, is one of our key drivers and a responsibility that we take very seriously indeed. We note that standards are growing increasingly rigorous and take this independent rating as a sign that we’re on the right track to creating an even more sustainable organisation.’
Read more: New growth in DGB's Cameroon Reforestation Project
PostNL's environmental strategy is comprehensive, focusing on reducing its ecological footprint through various innovative measures:
- Electric and cleaner fuels: The company is transitioning its fleet to electric vehicles and other cleaner fuels, significantly reducing emissions.
- Optimised routes and packaging: By optimising delivery routes and minimising packaging air, PostNL enhances efficiency and reduces waste.
- Sustainable energy: All energy used in sorting centres comes from renewable sources, such as wind and solar power.
- Collaborative sustainability: PostNL collaborates with external partners to develop sustainable business models, including reusable packaging and recommerce solutions.
PostNL unloading parcels. PostNL's sustainable city logistics. Source: www.postnl.nl]
Aiming for emission-free deliveries in 25 city centres by 2025, PostNL has initiated the use of electric vehicles, bicycles, and walking routes for mail and parcel delivery. The company's sustainable approach extends to its buildings, with the new parcel sorting centre in Apeldoorn achieving the highest BREEAM certification for sustainability.
PostNL delivering parcels with an electric bicycle. Source: www.postnl.nl
PostNL prides itself on being an inclusive employer, promoting gender equality, offering paid transition leave, and implementing zero-tolerance policies for discrimination. The company has also scored higher on Human Rights and Health & Safety, showcasing its commitment to creating a safe and equitable workplace.
Through various initiatives, PostNL supports social wellbeing and environmental sustainability. From delivering birthday packages for disadvantaged children to reducing packaging air in collaboration with the Missing Chapter Foundation, PostNL actively contributes to societal betterment.
Read more: DGB’s Hongera Reforestation journey unfolds in 2024
PostNL strives for network efficiency by optimising delivery routes and reducing unnecessary travel, thereby lowering emissions and operational costs. The company's fleet includes electric vehicles and those powered by green gas and HVO100, a fossil-free diesel fuel.
PostNL offers sustainable delivery options and products, such as the ‘fashion pack’ for convenient and eco-friendly returns and services for recycling small e-waste, further reducing its environmental impact.
PostNL is focused on reducing carbon emissions through sustainable operations and compensates for unavoidable emissions by investing in Gold Standard Climate+ projects.
Read more: Google's $35 million venture into the carbon credit market
With sustainable buildings and the aim for BREEAM certification across all sorting centres, PostNL is setting new standards in environmental stewardship within the logistics sector. The company's commitment to circularity, waste reduction, and biodiversity underscores its holistic approach to sustainability.
PostNL's journey toward sustainability is a compelling example of how a company can drive positive change within its industry and society at large. Through continuous innovation, social responsibility, and environmental conservation, PostNL is not just delivering parcels but also delivering a better future for all. As we move forward, the story of PostNL serves as an inspiration and a guide for businesses worldwide to embrace sustainability as their licence to operate, creating a world where commerce and care for the planet go hand in hand.
DGB Group plays a crucial role in helping companies achieve sustainability and make a significant positive environmental impact. Our solutions provide businesses with custom carbon strategies and high-quality carbon units, which is key to reducing their carbon footprint. These units are an important part of global efforts to conserve nature and maintain biodiversity. Partnering with DGB Group enables organisations to support verified and effective emissions reduction projects that meet their sustainability objectives. Working with us means contributing to initiatives that not only compensate for carbon emissions but also promote biodiversity and improve community wellbeing. Choose DGB to leverage nature restoration and contribute to a sustainable future for both the environment and your business.
Grow sustainably—the greener way—with DGB
