Introduction to Understanding the Urban Sharing Economy

Oksana Mont and Yuliya Voytenko Palgan

Chapter 1 in Understanding the Urban Sharing Economy, 2025, pp 2-23 from Edward Elgar Publishing

Abstract: With increasing urbanisation, cities face unique sustainability challenges and opportunities. The sharing economy emerges as a promising solution that can foster more efficient and circular use of urban resources through car sharing, accommodation rentals and the sharing of physical goods. It scrutinises traditional notions of consumption and ownership, business and community interaction. Digital technology has also facilitated the spread of the sharing economy, enabling global, regional and local peer-to-peer exchanges of goods, services, and experiences. Yet, critical questions have been raised about the sustainability and long-term impacts of the sharing economy. This chapter delves into these questions, exploring the potential environmental benefits and social cohesion emphasised by sharing economy organisations. At the same time, it also highlights concerns regarding the unequal distribution of economic benefits, regulatory challenges, and negative externalities. Addressing these concerns calls for policies and regulations that ensure the sustainability and positive long-term impact of the sharing economy on cities.

Keywords: Sharing economy; Urban sustainability; Peer-to-peer exchanges; For-profits; Non-profit; Municipal governance (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
ISBN: 9781035320530
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