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The Sharing Economy in Europe

Developments, Practices, and Contradictions

  • Open Access
  • 2022
  • Open Access
  • Book

About this book

This open access book considers the development of the sharing and collaborative economy with a European focus, mapping across economic sectors, and country-specific case studies. It looks at the roles the sharing economy plays in sharing and redistribution of goods and services across the population in order to maximise their functionality, monetary exchange, and other aspects important to societies. It also looks at the place of the sharing economy among various policies and how the contexts of public policies, legislation, digital platforms, and other infrastructure interrelate with the development and function of the sharing economy.

The book will help in understanding the future (sharing) economy models as well as to contribute in solving questions of better access to resources and sustainable innovation in the context of degrowth and growing inequalities within and between societies. It will also provide a useful source for solutions to the big challenges of our times such as climate change, the loss of biodiversity, and recently the coronavirus disease pandemic (COVID-19).

This book will be of interest to academics and students in economics and business, organisational studies, sociology, media and communication and computer science.

Table of Contents

  1. Introduction

    1. Frontmatter

    2. Chapter 1. The Sharing Economy in Europe: From Idea to Reality

      • Open Access
      Cristina Miguel, Gabriela Avram, Andrzej Klimczuk, Bori Simonovits, Bálint Balázs, Vida Česnuitytė
      The chapter delves into the multifaceted nature of the sharing economy, examining its conceptual foundations and the regulatory landscape in Europe. It analyzes the evolution of sharing economy practices across sectors such as mobility, accommodation, and food supply chains. Additionally, the chapter offers detailed case studies from various European countries, highlighting both the opportunities and challenges faced by the sharing economy. This comprehensive approach provides a nuanced understanding of the sharing economy's impact and future directions, making it an essential read for those interested in the topic's intricacies and implications.
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  2. Development of the Sharing Economy in Europe

    1. Frontmatter

    2. Chapter 2. A Conceptualisation of the Sharing Economy: Towards Theoretical Meaningfulness

      • Open Access
      Cristina Miguel, Esther Martos-Carrión, Mijalche Santa
      The chapter delves into the conceptualisation of the sharing economy, addressing the challenges and ambiguities surrounding its definition. It provides a historical overview of the concept, outlining the evolution from community-driven initiatives to profit-oriented platforms. The authors employ a theoretical meaningfulness framework to identify core principles, such as redistribution of assets, internet and technology, market-based systems, and peer-to-peer transactions. The analysis culminates in a new definition that aims to clarify and structure the understanding of the sharing economy, making it a valuable resource for scholars and policymakers.
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    3. Chapter 3. The Context of Public Policy on the Sharing Economy

      • Open Access
      Błażej Koczetkow, Andrzej Klimczuk
      This chapter delves into the complexities of public policy on the sharing economy, emphasizing the importance of understanding it within a historical context. It introduces the concept of digital governance and its impact on modern regulatory practices, exploring the challenges and opportunities presented by the sharing economy. The chapter also discusses the potential and limitations of new regulatory approaches, such as 'Regulation 2.0' and 'Lex Informatica,' and the role of esteem-based regulation in this evolving landscape. By addressing the heterogeneous approaches to regulation and the need for adaptive policies, the chapter offers a nuanced perspective on the future of public policy in the digital age.
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    4. Chapter 4. The Regulatory Context and Legal Evolution: The Cases of Airbnb and Uber

      • Open Access
      Kosjenka Dumančić, Natalia-Rozalia Avlona
      This chapter offers a detailed examination of the regulatory framework and legal developments surrounding the collaborative economy, with a focus on the European Union's approach. It begins by tracing the origins and evolution of the collaborative economy, highlighting the confusion and diversity of terms used to describe it. The text then delves into the EU's regulatory efforts, including the application of the E-Commerce Directive and the Information Society Services Directive. A significant portion of the chapter is dedicated to analyzing key judgments by the Court of Justice of the European Union, particularly in the cases of Uber and Airbnb. These judgments have had a profound impact on how these platforms are classified and regulated within the EU. The chapter also discusses the implications of these regulatory developments on employment, consumer rights, and the broader digital economy. By providing a thorough and nuanced analysis, this chapter aims to shed light on the complexities and challenges of regulating the collaborative economy in the EU.
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  3. Mapping Sectors of the Sharing Economy in European Countries

    1. Frontmatter

    2. Chapter 5. Shared Mobility: A Reflection on Sharing Economy Initiatives in European Transportation Sectors

      • Open Access
      Agnieszka Lukasiewicz, Venere Stefania Sanna, Vera Lúcia Alves Pereira Diogo, Anikó Bernát
      The chapter 'Shared Mobility: A Reflection on Sharing Economy Initiatives in European Transportation Sectors' delves into the evolution and impact of shared mobility systems in Europe, tracing their roots back to the 1960s. It discusses various forms of shared mobility, including car-sharing, bike-sharing, and ride-sharing, and their role in reducing individual car usage and integrating with public transportation. The chapter also explores the regulatory challenges and conflicts that arise from these initiatives, highlighting the need for balanced regulation and stakeholder satisfaction. Additionally, it examines the European mobility ecosystem in data, showcasing the dominance of car usage and the need for a transition towards more sustainable transportation modes. The COVID-19 pandemic is discussed as a significant disruptor, impacting the use of shared mobility and presenting new challenges and opportunities for the future. The chapter concludes by emphasizing the potential of shared mobility in achieving sustainable development goals, despite the complexities and conflicts it faces.
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    3. Chapter 6. Peer-To-Peer Accommodation in Europe: Trends, Challenges and Opportunities

      • Open Access
      Anna Farmaki, Cristina Miguel
      The chapter delves into the rapid growth and transformative impact of peer-to-peer (P2P) accommodation platforms in Europe, driven by the sharing economy and technological advancements. It discusses the various types of P2P accommodation, from non-profit platforms like Couchsurfing to profit-based giants like Airbnb. The text highlights the benefits and challenges these platforms bring, including economic opportunities for hosts and guests, as well as negative impacts on local communities and the traditional hospitality industry. It also explores the regulatory hurdles and the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on the sector. The chapter offers a nuanced view of the P2P accommodation phenomenon, making it a must-read for those interested in the future of tourism and hospitality in Europe.
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    4. Chapter 7. From Uberisation to Commoning: Experiences, Challenges, and Potential Pathways of the Sharing Economy in Food Supply Chains in Europe

      • Open Access
      Bori Simonovits, Bálint Balázs
      This chapter delves into the evolution of the sharing economy in the food sector, focusing on Europe. It begins by discussing the historical context of sharing and commoning in food provisioning and the potential benefits of these practices. The authors then present various typologies of food sharing models, including for-profit, non-profit, and community-based initiatives. The chapter is rich with illustrative cases from different European countries, showcasing the diversity and impact of food sharing economies. It also explores the challenges and controversies surrounding these initiatives, such as the tension between sustainability goals and market-driven motives. The authors conclude by reflecting on the scholarly and policy narratives around food sharing economies and their potential to transform the agri-food system.
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    5. Chapter 8. Unpacking the Financial Services and Crowdfunding Evolution in the Sharing Economy

      • Open Access
      Agnieszka Lukasiewicz, Mijalche Santa
      The chapter delves into the financial services and crowdfunding evolution within the sharing economy, emphasizing the benefits and disruptions they bring to traditional financial systems. It discusses the various models of crowdfunding, such as donation-based, reward-based, equity-based, and lending-based platforms, and their growth in different sectors. The text also explores the sustainability aspects of these alternative financing methods and their integration of ESG criteria. Additionally, it examines the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on crowdfunding, showcasing how the phenomenon adapted to meet immediate needs and provide valuable insights into affected communities. The chapter concludes with a summary of the market growth and regulatory challenges, particularly in Europe, and the potential future developments in this dynamic field.
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    6. Chapter 9. Education, Knowledge and Data in the Context of the Sharing Economy

      • Open Access
      Gabriela Avram, Eglantina Hysa
      This chapter delves into the role of education, knowledge, and data in the sharing economy, focusing on the sharing of educational resources and open educational practices. It highlights the use of platforms like Coursera and edX, which offer massive open online courses (MOOCs) and other educational activities. The text also examines the ethical and privacy issues surrounding these platforms and the importance of intellectual ownership. Additionally, it discusses the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on e-learning and the shift to online education. The chapter concludes by exploring the concept of open science and the collaborative production of knowledge, emphasizing the role of digital platforms in facilitating these activities.
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    7. Chapter 10. Solidarity and Care Economy in Times of ‘Crisis’: A View from Greece and Hungary Between 2015 and 2020

      • Open Access
      Penny Travlou, Anikó Bernát
      This chapter delves into the solidarity economy in Greece and Hungary, focusing on responses to the 2015 refugee crisis and the COVID-19 pandemic. It highlights grassroots initiatives that emerged to address these crises, emphasizing the role of care and mutual aid. The chapter is based on ethnographic fieldwork, interviews, and focus groups, providing a rich narrative of how these networks have evolved and adapted. It also compares the different contexts and responses in Greece and Hungary, showcasing the resilience and adaptability of solidarity economy practices in the face of multiple crises.
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  4. Country-Specific Case Studies

    1. Frontmatter

    2. Chapter 11. From a Sharing Economy to a Platform Economy: Public Values in Shared Mobility and Gig Work in the Netherlands

      • Open Access
      Martijn de Waal, Martijn Arets
      The chapter traces the development of the sharing economy in the Netherlands from its inception in the early 2010s to its transformation into a platform economy. It discusses the initial idealistic motives and the subsequent commercialization of sharing platforms, focusing on shared mobility and gig work. Key debates include the impact on public space, consumer and worker protections, and the role of platforms as private regulators. The text also explores the challenges and opportunities presented by the gig economy, including concerns over labor conditions and the need for regulatory adaptation. By analyzing these topics, the chapter provides a nuanced understanding of the sharing economy's evolution and its implications for public values and policy in the Netherlands.
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    3. Chapter 12. The Sharing Economy in France: A Favourable Ecosystem for Alternative Platforms Models

      • Open Access
      Myriam Lewkowicz, Jean-Pierre Cahier
      This chapter delves into the thriving landscape of platform cooperatives in France, focusing on the favorable ecosystem that has nurtured their growth. It begins by examining the public and private actors that support these cooperatives, including think tanks, associations, and facilitating measures from the state. The chapter then shifts to three exemplary case studies: Coopcycle in meal delivery, Mobicoop in carpooling, and Enercoop in renewable energy. Each case demonstrates how these cooperatives have successfully challenged capitalistic models and promoted social and environmental benefits. The chapter concludes by discussing the unique characteristics of the French approach to platform cooperativism, emphasizing the importance of a supportive ecosystem and innovative legal frameworks. This analysis offers valuable insights into how France has fostered the growth of cooperatives, making it a compelling read for those interested in the sharing economy and public policy.
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    4. Chapter 13. A Critical Perspective on the Sharing Economy in Tourism Using Examples of the Accommodation Sector in Austria

      • Open Access
      Malte Höfner, Rainer Rosegger
      This chapter delves into the transformative effects of the sharing economy on Austria's tourism sector, particularly the accommodation industry. It highlights the rise of digital platforms like Airbnb and their impact on local housing markets and tourism dynamics. The text also explores regulatory challenges and the potential of alternative, community-based platforms to mitigate negative effects. By presenting case studies of innovative platforms like Reposée and Schau auf’s Land, the chapter offers insights into sustainable and resilient tourism models that could shape the future of the industry.
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    5. Chapter 14. Unsettled State of Regulation: Italy’s Hard Path Towards Effective Rules for the Sharing Economy

      • Open Access
      Giulia Priora, Monica Postiglione, Stefano Valerio, Venere Stefania Sanna, Chiara Bassetti
      The chapter delves into the dynamic landscape of Italy’s sharing economy, focusing on its rapid growth and the regulatory challenges it faces. It examines the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on various sectors, including mobility and accommodation, and highlights the resilience of sharing economy platforms. The analysis also explores the regulatory fragmentation and the need for a cohesive legal framework to support the sector’s growth. The chapter offers insights into the innovative practices and the future policy directions needed to address the sector’s complexities.
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    6. Chapter 15. Time Banks in the United Kingdom: An Examination of the Evolution

      • Open Access
      Rodrigo Perez-Vega, Cristina Miguel
      Time banks in the UK have evolved from community-led initiatives to a diverse ecosystem supporting social care and inclusion. This chapter delves into the origins, models, and benefits of time banks, showcasing their role in fostering social capital and well-being. It also explores the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on these initiatives and the methodologies used to assess their social impact. The chapter concludes with a discussion on future research directions to enhance the effectiveness of time banks.
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    7. Chapter 16. The Sharing Economy Business Models in Poland: Aspects of Trust, Law, and Initiatives Facing the COVID-19 Pandemic

      • Open Access
      Agnieszka Lukasiewicz, Aleksandra Nadolska
      The chapter delves into the collaborative economy in Poland, highlighting the importance of trust and the role of technology in facilitating access to services. It discusses the regulatory challenges faced by sharing economy models, such as Uber and Airbnb, and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on sectors like accommodation and transportation. The text also explores the evolution of trust in the sharing economy and the initiatives that have emerged in response to the pandemic, such as online courses and crowdfunding platforms. Additionally, it examines the regulatory landscape and the need for a balanced approach to support the sharing economy while ensuring consumer protection and workers' rights.
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    8. Chapter 17. Advances of Sharing Economy in Agriculture and Tourism Sectors of Albania

      • Open Access
      Eglantina Hysa, Alba Demneri Kruja
      This chapter delves into the sharing economy's progress in Albania's agriculture and tourism sectors, highlighting the role of digitalisation and stakeholder collaboration. It examines the potential of the sharing economy to boost employment, resource efficiency, and transparency. The study also identifies regulatory gaps and suggests a quadruple helix model for sustainable innovation. By comparing Albania with other Western Balkan countries, the chapter offers a nuanced view of the sharing economy's state and prospects in a developing context.
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  5. Conclusions

    1. Frontmatter

    2. Chapter 18. The State and Critical Assessment of the Sharing Economy in Europe

      • Open Access
      Vida Česnuitytė, Bori Simonovits, Andrzej Klimczuk, Bálint Balázs, Cristina Miguel, Gabriela Avram
      This chapter offers a critical assessment of the sharing economy in Europe, drawing from a collection of papers by researchers involved in the COST Action ‘From Sharing to Caring.’ It explores the conceptualisation and regulation of the sharing economy, highlighting the need for targeted interventions and good practices. The chapter also maps the variety of sectors impacted by the sharing economy, from mobility and accommodation to food supply and finance, and discusses the diverse experiences and challenges in different European countries. By critically evaluating the current state and future directions of the sharing economy, this chapter provides valuable insights into the opportunities and pitfalls of this emerging phenomenon.
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Title
The Sharing Economy in Europe
Editors
Dr. Vida Česnuitytė
Prof. Dr. Andrzej Klimczuk
Dr. Cristina Miguel
Dr. Gabriela Avram
Copyright Year
2022
Electronic ISBN
978-3-030-86897-0
Print ISBN
978-3-030-86896-3
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-86897-0

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