AF-KL Cargo launches CO2 neutral service

Against the backdrop of growing concerns about the impact of carbon footprint on shipping trends, Air France Cargo-KLM Cargo has come up with an innovative carbon offset programme – CO2mpensation – and already four major South African perishables agents have signed up for it. AF-KL Cargo is the first major carrier to provide freight forwarders and shippers with a detailed insight into the CO2 emission of their shipments, with an option to compensate the generated emissions in Gold Standard projects that create wind, water and solar energy, says AF-KL Cargo Southern Africa director Rahul Pathak. Aviator Airfreight, Grindrod PCA, Morgan Cargo and Sky Services have agreed to compensate for at least 50% of the CO2 emitted by the transportation of fruit in the peak season from November to December, through this carbon offset service. Forwarders are becoming increasingly aware of the carbon miles issue, says Pathak. “Many forwarders appreciate the fact that we create transparency in the CO2 emission of their shipments. In this growing debate, clearly the air cargo industry is taking on the challenge of reducing the impact on the environment, jointly with our customers,” he told FTW. Clearly actions speak louder than words, and leading from the front to drive this initiative are Mike Froy MD Grindrod PCA, Jimmy Liebenberg MD Aviator Airfreight, Schalk Bruwer MD Morgan Cargo and Jaco Vlok director Sky Services. All agree that reducing carbon emissions not only makes sound business sense but should be a key pillar of any responsible company’s philosophy.