How We Work
Our approach to sustainable community mining in the Democratic Republic of Congo
Our Approach
At VLS One Scoop, we believe that mining can be conducted in a way that respects human dignity, protects the environment, and contributes to community development. Our approach is built on five core principles:
Community-Centered
We place local communities at the heart of our operations. Before beginning any mining activity, we engage extensively with community members to understand their needs, concerns, and aspirations. This participatory approach ensures that our work aligns with community priorities and that benefits flow directly to those most affected by mining operations.
Safety First
We prioritize the health and safety of all workers involved in our mining operations. This means providing proper equipment, training, and supervision to prevent accidents and minimize health risks associated with mining activities.
Environmental Responsibility
We are committed to minimizing the environmental impact of our operations through careful planning, responsible waste management, and land rehabilitation. We work to protect local ecosystems and contribute to the long-term environmental health of the regions where we operate.
Fair Compensation
We ensure that miners receive fair compensation for their work, reflecting the true value of their labor and the minerals they extract. This helps to create economic stability for mining families and reduces vulnerability to exploitation.
Continuous Improvement
We are constantly learning and evolving our practices based on feedback from communities, advances in mining techniques, and emerging best practices in the sector. This commitment to improvement drives innovation and ensures that our approach remains effective and relevant.

Responsible Mining Practices
Our mining operations follow strict protocols designed to ensure safety, minimize environmental impact, and maximize benefits to local communities.
Site Assessment
Before beginning operations, we conduct thorough environmental and social impact assessments to understand potential risks and benefits. This includes geological surveys, ecosystem mapping, and community consultations.
Community Engagement
We establish formal agreements with local communities that outline roles, responsibilities, and benefit-sharing arrangements. These agreements are developed through inclusive processes that ensure all community members have a voice.
Training & Equipment
All miners receive comprehensive training on safe mining techniques, environmental protection, and mineral identification. We provide appropriate safety equipment and tools to improve efficiency and reduce risks.
Extraction & Processing
Mining activities follow established protocols that minimize waste and environmental damage. We use techniques that reduce the need for harmful chemicals and limit disruption to surrounding ecosystems.
Fair Trade Practices
Minerals are purchased at fair prices that reflect market values and the labor involved in extraction. Transparent weighing and grading processes ensure miners receive appropriate compensation for their work.
Rehabilitation
After mining activities are complete, we work to rehabilitate the land through reforestation, soil restoration, and other environmental recovery techniques. This helps to minimize the long-term impact of mining on local ecosystems.
Community Development Initiatives

Beyond our mining operations, VLS One Scoop is committed to supporting broader community development. We recognize that sustainable development requires investment in people, infrastructure, and alternative livelihoods.
Education Support
We invest in local schools, provide scholarships for children from mining families, and support adult education programs. By improving access to quality education, we help to create alternatives to mining work for the next generation.
Healthcare Initiatives
We support local health facilities, organize health campaigns, and provide education on occupational health and safety. These efforts help to address both mining-related health issues and broader community health needs.
Alternative Livelihoods
We provide training and support for alternative income-generating activities such as agriculture, small business development, and crafts. This helps to diversify local economies and reduce dependence on mining.
Infrastructure Development
We contribute to the development of community infrastructure such as water systems, roads, and community centers. These investments improve quality of life and create conditions for broader economic development.
Women's Empowerment
We actively support women's participation in mining and community decision-making. Special programs focus on creating economic opportunities for women and addressing gender-specific challenges in mining communities.
Environmental Stewardship
Protecting and restoring the environment is a core commitment of VLS One Scoop. We implement a range of measures to minimize our ecological footprint and contribute to environmental health.
Water Protection
We implement strict protocols to prevent water contamination, including proper waste management, sediment control, and water treatment systems where necessary.
Land Rehabilitation
We restore mined areas through reforestation, soil improvement, and erosion control measures, helping to return the land to productive use after mining activities are complete.
Waste Management
We minimize waste generation and implement proper disposal systems for mining byproducts, reducing the environmental footprint of our operations.
Chemical Reduction
We use mechanical separation techniques where possible and minimize the use of chemicals in mineral processing to reduce environmental and health risks.
Biodiversity Conservation
We work to protect local ecosystems and wildlife through careful planning, buffer zones around sensitive areas, and habitat restoration initiatives.
Renewable Energy
Where possible, we incorporate renewable energy sources such as solar power to reduce our carbon footprint and demonstrate sustainable energy alternatives.