The Role of ESG in Our Operations

Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) considerations are integrated into GLS'* business activities. Our efforts focus on reducing GHG emissions from our operations , supporting employees and local communities , and promoting responsible business practices across our operations and supply chain.

ESG reporting

Discover our ESG journey through detailed reports from recent years.

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ESG Report 2022

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ESG Report 2020

Our ESG efforts

Our commitment to sustainability is guided by three core priorities:

GLS driver smiling while holding a parcel in front of an open delivery van

Environment

Every day, GLS transports millions of parcels. We work to progressively reduce carbon emissions from our logistics and transport processes. That's why transport fleet electrification and the increasing usage of renewable electricity are key areas of action for us.

GLS eVan driving on a country road

Social

With about 24,000 colleagues from diverse backgrounds and a cross-border network covering more than 50 countries, we take pride in being an inclusive employer, a trusted business partner and supporting local communities through our social initiatives.

Governance

Governance

Responsible corporate governance ensures the trust placed in us by stakeholders is earned through integrity and reliable service. We provide access to policies, supporting documents and certificates to foster transparency.

2025-2026 Highlights:

Selected environmental and social performance highlights from 2025/26.

EcoVadis Silver Medal

In 2025, GLS received an EcoVadis sustainability rating of 71/100 points, placing it among the top 15% of companies assessed by EcoVadis across all industries during the preceding 12 months.

Decreased GHG Emissions

Decreased GHG Emissions

In 2025, GLS reduced Group-wide absolute market-based GHG emissions by 4% compared to calendar year 2024.

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Electric and Low-Emission Transport Fleet

In 2025, more than 8,200 electric and low-emission vehicles*** were in operation across the GLS Group network, representing a 24% increase compared to 2024.

 

The UN Sustainable Development Goals

The United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) provide a reference framework for our ESG activities. We have identified five goals that are particularly relevant to our business operations and sustainability priorities.

Learn about the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) adopted by the UN.

*Unless specifically mentioned, GLS refers to all affiliated companies of General Logistics Systems B.V., Amsterdam, operating under the GLS trademark.

**This sustainability rating evaluates companies across Environment, Procurement, Ethics and Labor & Human Rights. EcoVadis calculates a company’s ranking by comparing its performance with all companies assessed in the Eco Vadis database during the previous 12 months. A Silver Medal corresponds to a ranking within the top 15%. Further information is available from Eco Vadis.

****This means vehicles that during driving operation use only electricity or fuels that create lower emissions than diesel or gasoline fuel (e.g. HVO, biogas, natural gas such as LNG, LPG, CNG). Further, this also includes parcel deliveries on foot (as of today, only applicable for GLS Spain).