What is the Solidarity Garage by ARENAM?
Welcome to the Solidarity Garage, a unique initiative by ARENAM (Association for the Respect of the Environment and Assistance to Mobility). Since January 2024, ARENAM has joined forces with Bo Ressourcerie, becoming part of the Solidarity Economy Group COOPELIS. This merger is a big deal—it’s a major leap forward in their commitment to both the environment and community solidarity. The garage isn’t just about fixing cars; it’s evolving into an integration workshop that supports local people while protecting the planet. Here, customers can even roll up their sleeves and repair their own vehicles, making it a hands-on, empowering experience.
Main Benefits of the Solidarity Garage
ARENAM’s Solidarity Garage offers a range of benefits that make it stand out:
- Affordable car repair services that promote local employment
- Bicycle rental and maintenance for eco-friendly exploration of the region
- Collection and responsible recycling of used cooking oils
- Demand-Responsive Transport (TAD) service, free and flexible, aimed at helping RSA beneficiaries access jobs and training
- Used cooking oils are transformed into B100 biodiesel through a partnership with GECCO
- Plans to enhance the collection and sale of recycled oils to replace traditional boiler fuels, which will be banned in France starting July 2022
Bicycle Rental and Maintenance: Explore Sustainably
ARENAM encourages everyone to discover the beautiful local area by bike. Their bicycle rental service is perfect for those who want to enjoy ecological outings without the hassle of owning a bike. Plus, they take care of maintenance, so the bikes are always in top shape. It’s a simple, green way to get around, and it supports a healthier lifestyle and environment.
Used Cooking Oil Collection and Recycling
One of the standout features of ARENAM’s project is the collection of used cooking oils. Instead of letting these oils go to waste, customers can drop them off at the garage. These oils are then responsibly recycled and converted into biodiesel (B100) thanks to their partnership with GECCO. This biodiesel is a clean alternative fuel, helping reduce reliance on fossil fuels. With the upcoming ban on traditional boiler fuels in France from July 2022, this initiative is not just timely—it’s essential.
Demand-Responsive Transport (TAD): Mobility for All
The TAD service is a flexible, free transport solution designed to make life easier for RSA beneficiaries. It helps people access employment and training opportunities, breaking down barriers to inclusion. This service supports the local economy and promotes sustainable mobility, showing how transport can be both practical and socially responsible.
Project Impact on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
- SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being – promoting active lifestyles through bike rentals
- SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy – producing biodiesel from recycled cooking oils
- SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth – creating local jobs via the solidarity garage
- SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities – offering flexible, inclusive transport options
- SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production – recycling used cooking oils responsibly
- SDG 13: Climate Action – reducing fossil fuel use and emissions through biodiesel and eco-friendly transport
Join the Movement for a Sustainable Future
ARENAM invites everyone to become an agent of change. Whether it’s by repairing a car, renting a bike, recycling used cooking oils, or using the TAD service, every action counts. Together, these efforts build a stronger, greener community. Interested folks can reach out via phone at 03 10 43 42 75 or through their online contact form. The garage is located at 19 Route de Rocroi, 08260 Auvillers-les-Forges. It’s more than just a garage—it’s a hub for solidarity, sustainability, and local support.
