How are Green Score points calculated?
Every item gets a CO₂ value (see next question). Your points as the giver: points = max(1, round(CO₂ value in kg × 2)). A USB cable earns just 1 point, a sofa around 170 points, a laptop around 529 points. Whoever receives the item also gets a third of the giver's points (rounded up).
What standard is the CO₂ value based on?
Our CO₂ calculator uses four calculation paths depending on item type. For around 29 listed electronics items (smartphone, laptop, TV, etc.), we use fixed values based on published manufacturer Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs), ecoinvent 3.9, and IPCC AR6 WGIII – production emissions, cradle-to-gate. For large appliances (washing machine, fridge, etc.), we estimate appliance weight, partly based on EU JRC studies, and multiply it by a material-based factor (source: ecoinvent 3.9, EU JRC Ecodesign background studies). For everything else (furniture, clothing, kitchenware, etc.), we use weight × material factor based on industry-average figures (ISO 14040, ecoinvent 3.9).
Why isn't the full manufacturing footprint shown?
We calculate conservatively on purpose: every result first gets an 8 % transport surcharge for the original manufacturing and distribution chain. We then show only 70 % of that value as the emissions actually avoided – not the full footprint of original production. This keeps the displayed number a cautious estimate of what reuse genuinely saves, rather than an inflated best-case claim.
How does the Climate Hero milestone (tree planting) work?
You reach "Climate Hero" once you've collected at least 750 Green Score points AND given away at least 3 items successfully. Both conditions must be met – not just one.
What if I reach 750 points with just one item?
Some large or electronic items (e.g. a TV or PC) can exceed 750 points on their own. So the tree planting reflects genuine, repeated engagement rather than rewarding a single item, you also need at least 3 given-away items in total. If one item already covers the points, you simply give away 2 more.
When is the tree actually planted?
Tree planting is funded through Givlit Premium, which isn't available yet. Milestones already reached are saved and honored retroactively once Premium launches. From then on, the actual planting doesn't happen immediately, but in batches during our reforestation partners' real planting seasons – spring (March–April) and autumn (October–November) – giving young saplings the best chance of survival.
What is the rank system?
As your Green Score grows, you climb the ranks: Eco Starter → Green Helper → Planet Saver → Climate Hero → Earth Guardian. The more you give away, the higher your rank.
Is Givlit really free?
Yes. Listing, browsing, chat, and the CO₂/Green Score calculator are permanently and fully free – that won't change with Givlit Premium either.
