DEN Marketplace
Every vendor on DEN is assessed across five pillars of sustainability. We want to create a community based on trust through honest, measurable impact.
DEN's sustainability framework is a 100-point self-assessment that vendors complete when they apply and can update at any time. It covers five areas: materials, production, social impact, logistics, and transparency. Points are awarded for specific, verifiable practices.
Vendors who score 40 or above earn a badge that appears on their storefront and every product listing. Badges are reviewed annually. DEN spot-checks claims and reserves the right to remove a badge if evidence is not provided on request.
40–59 points
Making genuine steps toward sustainability across at least some pillars.
60–79 points
Strong performance across most pillars with evidence to back claims.
80–100 points
DEN's highest sustainability recognition. Leading the way for the industry.
Each pillar has a maximum point value. Vendors score points only for answering "yes" and score no points for "not sure" and "no".
Where do your raw materials come from, and how were they produced? This pillar rewards vendors who source responsibly, use natural or recycled materials, and minimise virgin resource extraction.
Primary materials are natural (wood, linen, leather, stone, clay)
+5 ptsMaterials sourced from UK or EU suppliers
+4 ptsReclaimed, recycled, or upcycled materials used
+5 ptsFSC, PEFC, or equivalent certification held
+4 ptsNo single-use plastic in materials or packaging
+4 ptsCan name the origin of primary materials
+3 ptsHow is the product made? This pillar looks at energy use, waste, longevity, and the footprint of the making process itself.
Products designed to last 10+ years
+5 ptsWorkshop uses renewable energy (solar, green tariff)
+5 ptsOffcuts and waste materials are reused or composted
+4 ptsProducts are repairable — spare parts or repair guides available
+4 ptsMade to order (no overproduction)
+4 ptsNo harmful finishes (VOC-free, water-based, natural oils)
+3 ptsIs the business good for the people involved and the community around it? This pillar covers fair pay, local employment, and broader community contribution.
All workers (including self) paid at or above Living Wage
+5 ptsApprentices, trainees, or community workshops run
+4 ptsBusiness based in an underserved or rural community
+3 ptsCollaborates with other local makers or businesses
+3 ptsCharitable or community donations made in last 12 months
+3 ptsAccessible products (adaptable designs, inclusive sizing)
+2 ptsHow does the product get to the buyer? This pillar rewards low-carbon delivery, minimal packaging, and local-first thinking.
Own delivery by van or cargo bike (no third-party courier)
+5 ptsPackaging is plastic-free, recycled, or reusable
+4 ptsCarbon offset scheme in place for courier deliveries
+3 ptsLocal delivery within 50 miles prioritised
+3 ptsCan the vendor back up their claims? This pillar rewards openness, evidence, and honest communication with buyers.
Sustainability claims backed by evidence (photos, certs, receipts)
+5 ptsSupply chain disclosed on storefront or product pages
+4 ptsNo greenwashing — claims are specific and measurable
+3 ptsOpenly shares what they are still working on improving
+3 ptsComplete your sustainability assessment in your vendor dashboard. Your score and badge update instantly and appear on your storefront and product listings.