Cargolux and global freight forwarder AIT Worldwide Logistics have signed a landmark agreement for the use of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), marking the largest such deal in their history. The partnership, which supports Microsoft’s Cloud Logistics operations, is expected to save 66,000 tonnes of CO₂e between 2025 and 2027.
Sustainable transport for Microsoft Cloud Logistics
The SAF, sourced from used cooking oil and tallow (excluding palm oil and its derivatives), is supplied by Valero Marketing & Supply Company Diamond Green Diesel LLC. It is added to Cargolux’s fuel inventory at George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) in Houston, supporting the air transport of Microsoft’s server racks globally.
Verified sustainability and emissions tracking
In line with best practices for emissions accountability, Cargolux and AIT are leveraging the Roundtable on Sustainable Biomaterials (RSB) Registry to transparently track and retire SAF usage claims. The neat SAF itself is certified under EU/CORSIA standards, ensuring compliance with global regulations and sustainable criteria.
Cross-industry collaboration to drive sustainability
“Collaboration across our supply chain ecosystem is crucial as we continue to drive toward Microsoft’s sustainability goals,” said Colin Todd, General Manager of Cloud Manufacturing Operations & Fulfillment at Microsoft.
“By working together to increase the production and use of SAF, we can help to cost effectively drive down emissions and increase the potential for more use of alternative fuels across the transport ecosystem.”
AIT and Cargolux united in long-term SAF investment
“Securing this noteworthy volume of SAF with Cargolux over a three-year period is a key aspect of our global supply chain solutions for Microsoft Cloud Services,” said Chelsea Lamar, Vice-President, Global Sustainability at AIT.
“This alliance between forward-thinking companies will serve as a model for future cooperation, and we look forward to advocating for similar deals with like-minded shippers in the near future.”
Cargolux’s sustainability vision reinforced
Domenico Ceci, Executive Vice-President Sales & Marketing at Cargolux, added: “This agreement demonstrates the importance of strong partnerships in the journey to sustainability.
“Our commitment to reducing our carbon footprint is unwavering, and we will continue to work towards this goal despite the volatility we face in our industry. We are proud of achieving this milestone with AIT and contributing to paving the way for a sounder supply chain.”
This landmark SAF agreement underscores the power of collaboration across industry leaders in driving forward meaningful climate action and innovation in sustainable logistics.