Classics Refurbishment as a Laboratory for the Circular Economy

I am in the midst of writing a sustainability report for the ClassicMADRID event, an exercise that not only immerses me in the fascinating sphere of classic cars but also allows me to appreciate the depth of their commitment to the circular economy, sustainability and community. This event is not just a gathering of motoring enthusiasts; it is a showcasing of practices that embody the principles of the 2030 Agenda, a tangible demonstration of how passion can coexist harmoniously with environmental and social responsibility.

I am in the midst of writing a sustainability report for the ClassicMADRID event, an exercise that not only immerses me in the fascinating sphere of classic cars but also allows me to appreciate the depth of their commitment to the circular economy, sustainability and community. This event is not just a gathering of motoring enthusiasts; it is a showcasing of practices that embody the principles of the 2030 Agenda, a tangible demonstration of how passion can coexist harmoniously with environmental and social responsibility.

Waste management has seen a significant evolution, with initiatives aimed at building municipal or state-run centres dedicated to repair and reuse. These facilities are vital in the effort to transform the way our society perceives and handles waste, turning it from an inevitable end to a new beginning. ClassicMADRID stands as an ideal destination for my colleagues, waste managers and planners, offering them the opportunity to observe first-hand the ecosystem that turns vehicle restoration into a truly sustainable and not merely sustained activity.

It is essential to distinguish between 'sustainable' and 'sustained'.

A sustainable project is one that sustains itself over the long term, integrating environmental, economic and social considerations at its core. It is an initiative that not only survives, but thrives by respecting and revitalising available resources. On the other hand, 'sustained' refers to something that remains active or in existence, often through continued external support, without necessarily addressing or improving the efficiency of the resources used or having a positive impact on the environment. Vehicles that are restored and displayed are not simply saved from oblivion, but are transformed, through craftsmanship and care, into living examples of how history can be preserved and valued. Participants and visitors to the event witness how parts and vehicles, which in another context would otherwise be considered waste, take on a new life and purpose. In conclusion, the classic car restoration sector not only preserves cultural and automotive heritage, but also offers valuable lessons in resource management and the circular economy.

It is crucial to dismantle certain clichés surrounding the world of classic cars.

Far from being a hobby reserved for a select few, classic restoration reveals that anyone with the interest and dedication can immerse themselves in the satisfying work of restoring a vehicle. From the fan clubs of the iconic Citroën 2CV to the workshops that make it possible to restore cars that seemed destined for oblivion, this event is a testament to the creativity, skill and community commitment that goes into the restoration of classic cars..

The show is not only a place to admire automotive gems; it is also an educational forum where the principles of reuse and refurbishment are presented as viable and attractive strategies for waste management and resource conservation. The fair is a celebration of the circular economy in action, showing how every component of a vehicle can have a second life, thereby reducing the need for the production of new parts and, in doing so, minimising the associated carbon footprint. But it is even more. It is a vibrant community where knowledge is shared, innovation is encouraged and social bonds are strengthened. Fans find not only pieces for their projects, but also advice, stories and, most importantly, a shared understanding of the importance of preserving our cultural and environmental heritage. As I write this sustainability report, I cannot help but be inspired by the vision and perseverance of all those who make ClassicMADRID a reality.