The Sharing Economy in Europe
Developments, Practices, and Contradictions
- Open Access
- 2022
- Open Access
- Book
- Editors
- Dr. Vida Česnuitytė
- Prof. Dr. Andrzej Klimczuk
- Dr. Cristina Miguel
- Dr. Gabriela Avram
- Publisher
- Springer International Publishing
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
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Introduction
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Frontmatter
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Chapter 1. The Sharing Economy in Europe: From Idea to Reality
- Open Access
Download PDF-versionThe 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.AI Generated
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AbstractThis chapter explains the rationale behind the book. It provides basic definitions of the concept of the sharing economy as well as the primary meanings related to the subject of the analysis undertaken in the subsequent chapters. This Introduction also includes a description of the main benefits of the analysis of the sharing economy from a European perspective. It highlights that the idea of the book emerged from the collaboration of most co-authors in the COST Action CA16121 ‘From Sharing to Caring: Examining Socio-Technical Aspects of the Collaborative Economy.’ Finally, the outline of the book is presented, providing a description of the content of each chapter within this academic collection.
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Development of the Sharing Economy in Europe
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Frontmatter
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Chapter 2. A Conceptualisation of the Sharing Economy: Towards Theoretical Meaningfulness
- Open Access
Download PDF-versionThe 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.AI Generated
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AbstractThe sharing economy aims to redistribute existing goods (e.g., tools, cars) across the population in order to maximise their functionality. Within sharing economies, there can be monetary exchange (e.g., Airbnb, BlaBlaCar), or the exchange can be altruistic (e.g., Timebanking, CouchSurfing). Nevertheless, sharing economy platforms mainly function as digital marketplaces where supply and demand are matched. The rise of sharing economy practices is followed by a torrent of publications. As a result, there is conceptual confusion about the sharing economy concept. This chapter aims to provide an answer to this challenge by following the framework for theoretical meaningfulness. Through two levels of literature analysis, the chapter aims to shed light on the conceptualisation of the sharing economy. -
Chapter 3. The Context of Public Policy on the Sharing Economy
- Open Access
Download PDF-versionThis 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.AI Generated
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AbstractThe purpose of this chapter is to analyse approaches to the sharing economy from the perspective of public policy science. In the first part of the text, attention is paid to perceiving the development of the emerging sharing economy not only as phenomenon with positive economic effects but also as a set of public problems (e.g., on the labour market and for existing economic structures) that require intervention at the level of national governments as well as at international level. Subsequent sections identify possible actions for regulating the development of the sharing economy. The role of soft law, stakeholders’ networks, self-regulation and standardisation are discussed in the chapter. The summary includes potential directions for further research. -
Chapter 4. The Regulatory Context and Legal Evolution: The Cases of Airbnb and Uber
- Open Access
Download PDF-versionThis 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.AI Generated
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AbstractWhilst sharing economy has been enjoying increasing popularity worldwide over the last decade; its legal definition has been debatable. This is aligning with the fact that the European Union has not provided the legal framework for the sharing economy yet, apart from a European Commission Communication from 2016. This Communication seeks a balance between the support of a Digital Single Market in the EU and the protection of the consumers’ rights and leaves a broad space for national legislations to respond to the phenomenon of sharing economy. The aim of this chapter is to address these issues within the framework of two sharing economy case studies: Airbnb and Uber as the only source at the EU level of applicable law besides the EC Communication.
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Mapping Sectors of the Sharing Economy in European Countries
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Frontmatter
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Chapter 5. Shared Mobility: A Reflection on Sharing Economy Initiatives in European Transportation Sectors
- Open Access
Download PDF-versionThe 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.AI Generated
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AbstractFreedom of movement is a fundamental human right. The transportation sector, therefore, holds high socio-economic significance—while contributing almost a quarter of Europe’s greenhouse gas emissions and being a major air polluter. Key parts of the ‘collaborative and sharing economy’ relate to transport, including peer-to-peer and on-demand transportation. While these forms of ‘collaborative consumption’ may be seen as promoting environmental sustainability, such models also generate inequality and regulatory disputes (e.g., Uber’s workers and licences), leading to stakeholder conflict. This chapter examines the importance of the main shared mobility services within the transportation sector, their contribution to changing mobility habits, and their connection to sustainable development issues. We also consider conflicts in different European countries caused by shared mobility and the possible effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. -
Chapter 6. Peer-To-Peer Accommodation in Europe: Trends, Challenges and Opportunities
- Open Access
Download PDF-versionThe 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.AI Generated
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AbstractThe aim of this chapter is to discuss the evolution of the peer-to-peer (P2P) accommodation phenomenon in Europe and to examine the key trends noticeable in the sector, including any external factors that influence P2P accommodation operations, practices and future development. Correspondingly, the chapter also examines the opportunities and challenges that emerge from P2P accommodation’s rapid growth. As such, the chapter aims to contribute to the ongoing discussion on the evolution of P2P accommodation platforms in Europe. Specifically, the chapter offers insights that may illuminate the understanding of the drivers, inhibitors, and influencers pertinent to the phenomenon’s development and resilience potential in the COVID-19 pandemic era. -
Chapter 7. From Uberisation to Commoning: Experiences, Challenges, and Potential Pathways of the Sharing Economy in Food Supply Chains in Europe
- Open Access
Download PDF-versionThis 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.AI Generated
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AbstractThe chapter explores a broad dimensionality of experiences, learnings, challenges, and potential pathways of the sharing economy in food supply chains. Through technology-enabled business applications, the mobilisation of underutilised assets has been successfully facilitated in the foodservice industry. Community-based models have been relying on the mutual risk-sharing of producers and consumers. Service models and the uberisation of food, when contract workers use their personal vehicles to deliver food to customers, has gained more acknowledgement during the COVID-19 times. Based on our qualitative study, various peer-to-peer production and collaborative consumption initiatives are presented in this chapter to assess how the idea of sharing economy entered the food sector. Our arguments are substantiated with varied case examples at multiple value chain points (e.g., production, processing, transport, and consumption). -
Chapter 8. Unpacking the Financial Services and Crowdfunding Evolution in the Sharing Economy
- Open Access
Download PDF-versionThe 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.AI Generated
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AbstractSharing economy is a phenomenon emerging in all aspects of social and business practices. While its impact is most prominent in the mobility and accommodation domain, some of the earliest demonstrations of the benefits of the sharing economy have occurred in financial services. Financial services in the sharing economy range from peer-to-peer lending to crowdfunding with participation from new start-ups and incumbent financial service providers with for-profit or non-profit goals. Given the variety of elements represented in financial services, there is a great need to collect and connect what has been done and to identify some common themes, which will serve as a basis for future discussions on the evolution of financial services in the sharing economy. -
Chapter 9. Education, Knowledge and Data in the Context of the Sharing Economy
- Open Access
Download PDF-versionThis 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.AI Generated
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AbstractThe Open Education model, where anyone on the planet with access to Internet can enrol in an online course, learn at their own pace, and have their assignments assessed by peers, is at the base of platforms such as Khan Academy, Udacity, Coursera, Skillshare. Peer-to-peer learning lowers the barrier for learning new skills and encourages even teenagers to mentor younger kids in learning how to code. A plethora of platforms facilitating collaborative information production and consumption has followed the Wikipedia interaction model: OpenStreetMap, OpenPlaques, Quora, Instructables, WikiVoyage, allowing people from varied backgrounds to get involved in the creation of information and knowledge resources. This chapter aims to examine activities such as Open Education, Open Design, knowledge and data sharing from the perspective of the sharing economy. -
Chapter 10. Solidarity and Care Economy in Times of ‘Crisis’: A View from Greece and Hungary Between 2015 and 2020
- Open Access
Download PDF-versionThis 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.AI Generated
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AbstractThis chapter describes the emergence of solidarity actions in two European countries—Greece and Hungary—in response to two recent crises: the arrival of large numbers of refugees in 2015 and the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. Focusing on the experiences in two European countries with different socio-political, historical trajectories and civic traditions, we look at how solidarity economy emerged in crisis and how it was framed not only on monetised value but also on care and nurture. Our accounts of Greece and Hungary draw from ethnographic fieldwork and other qualitative social research (interviews and focus groups) with grassroots solidarity collectives.
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Country-Specific Case Studies
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Frontmatter
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Chapter 11. From a Sharing Economy to a Platform Economy: Public Values in Shared Mobility and Gig Work in the Netherlands
- Open Access
Download PDF-versionThe 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.AI Generated
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AbstractThis chapter discusses the sharing economy in the Netherlands, focussing on shared mobility and gig work platforms. The Netherlands has been known as one of the pioneers in the sharing economy. Local initiatives emerged at the beginning of the 2010s. International players such as Uber, UberPop, and Airbnb followed soon after. Initially, the sharing economy was greeted with a sense of optimism, as it was thought to contribute to social cohesion and sustainability. Over the last few years, the debate has shifted to the question of how public values can be safeguarded or stimulated. In this regard, shared mobility is hoped to contribute to more sustainable transport. In the gig economy, scholars and labour representatives fear a further flexibilisation of labour; others see opportunities for economic growth. -
Chapter 12. The Sharing Economy in France: A Favourable Ecosystem for Alternative Platforms Models
- Open Access
Download PDF-versionThis 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.AI Generated
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AbstractThis chapter reflects on the sharing economy in France and what can be considered a favourable ecosystem for alternative platform models. This chapter starts by reviewing a large amount of academic literature, reports, and legislation that have been produced for the last ten years and that has certainly helped businesses, public sector institutions, and local communities to anticipate changes inspired by technology and its uses and to open up their innovation processes. The chapter then focuses on platform cooperatives in three emblematic domains (meal delivery service, carpooling, and energy) that illustrate how France has embraced the criticisms of the sharing economy and its platforms. This chapter finally discussed how some factors could be considered as characteristics of a ‘French touch’ in terms of platform cooperativism. -
Chapter 13. A Critical Perspective on the Sharing Economy in Tourism Using Examples of the Accommodation Sector in Austria
- Open Access
Download PDF-versionThis 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.AI Generated
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AbstractIn recent decades, services on digital platforms have become increasingly important in tourism. What started with concepts of exchange as a non- or less commodified practice of sharing accommodations (e.g., Couchsurfing) became exceedingly commodified in the platform economy on a global scale and turned into successful business models (e.g., Airbnb) with strong effects on traditional provider structures and local labour market. In Austria, the economic relevance of tourism traces back more than 100 years. Today, new forms of overnight stays, such as short-term rentals (STRs), have flooded the traditional tourism industry market with offerings in the accommodation sector and pose particular challenges in the housing market in Austrian cities. The COVID-19 crisis highlights the general volatility in tourism. Therefore, alternative business models seem to be more important than before. Discussing the relevance of hybrid sharing as a business model between market-based services and platform cooperatives in the global platform economy, domestic examples from Austria serve as an incentive for other countries to show new pathways in terms of alternative platform structures and work towards a less volatile economy. In doing so, national insights of regulations of global players and new guidelines of platform-based sharing are debated too. -
Chapter 14. Unsettled State of Regulation: Italy’s Hard Path Towards Effective Rules for the Sharing Economy
- Open Access
Download PDF-versionThe 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.AI Generated
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AbstractSince its heyday, the Italian sharing economy has emblematically displayed the problem of a wanting and largely ineffective regulatory environment. To date, the Italian legislator has been unable to formulate a consistent legal response to the main social and economic challenges stemming from the sharing economy, opting for ad hoc reactive measures, and leaving great uncertainty among all stakeholders. This has been exacerbated by the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic, which has seen the slowdown of some sharing economy activities and the rise of new ones. Building on these premises, the chapter offers a snapshot of the current reality of the Italian sharing economy, highlighting the main legal issues emerging from its consolidation, reflecting on the main implications of the COVID-19 crisis within the sector, and drawing meaningful considerations on some policy directions worth considering in the post-pandemic society. -
Chapter 15. Time Banks in the United Kingdom: An Examination of the Evolution
- Open Access
Download PDF-versionTime 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.AI Generated
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AbstractTime banks allow people to exchange and trade their skills; an hour for an hour. Today the United Kingdom (UK) has built a diverse ecosystem around times and skills sharing of both generic (e.g., TimeBanking UK, Communities Together) and specialist skills (e.g., Frontline19). This chapter defines the main characteristics and benefits of time banks. It also provides a typology of platforms that can be found in the UK based on the types of transactions and the types of assets being exchanged. The chapter analyses the evolution of time banks in the UK and how the COVID-19 pandemic has fostered the development of new initiatives. Finally, the chapter also includes a discussion of the attempts to measure the economic and social impact of time banks. -
Chapter 16. The Sharing Economy Business Models in Poland: Aspects of Trust, Law, and Initiatives Facing the COVID-19 Pandemic
- Open Access
Download PDF-versionThe 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.AI Generated
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AbstractThis chapter presents an analysis of sharing economy development in Poland, not only big businesses such as Uber or Airbnb but also smaller, local initiatives—often in their niches, doing better than global corporations. All kinds of enterprises and institutions are increasingly willing to incorporate elements of shared economics for business practice and organisational culture through stressing cost savings and flexibility. With all the opportunities sharing economy brings, it also creates many unsolved issues, such as regulations, labour law, competition, which often lead to conflicts of different stakeholders. Authors discuss various sharing economy initiatives in Poland as well as social strands, trust, and problems with legally unregulated issues. Furthermore, this chapter also covers different aspects of sharing economy initiatives embedded in the COVID-19 pandemic. -
Chapter 17. Advances of Sharing Economy in Agriculture and Tourism Sectors of Albania
- Open Access
Download PDF-versionThis 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.AI Generated
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AbstractThe concept of sharing economy arises with the digital economy. However, the awareness of the terms ‘sharing economy’ and ‘collaborative economy’ is still very modest in Albania. With the industry 4.0 revolution, the digitisation process of the economy has become a priority agenda for the government of this country. Although the sharing economy is evidenced in the Albanian market in many industries, this chapter focuses only on the agriculture and tourism sector. This study identifies the development trends of both sectors, their specifications, and their progress tracks of the collaborative/sharing aspects. After an integrated strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats (SWOT) analysis of the sharing economy developments, the study comes up with the quadruple helix collaboration model as a necessity of a collaborative economy supportive to the Albanian market enhancement.
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Conclusions
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Frontmatter
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Chapter 18. The State and Critical Assessment of the Sharing Economy in Europe
- Open Access
Download PDF-versionThis 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.AI Generated
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AbstractThe chapter is the final one in the volume of collected papers aiming to discuss the sharing economy in Europe. The idea of the book emerged within the research network created by the COST Action CA16121 ‘From Sharing to Caring: Examining Socio-Technical Aspects of the Collaborative Economy.’ The authors of the chapter sum up theoretical and empirical materials as well as country-specific cases provided in the book. The article critically assesses the current status of the sharing economy in European countries by highlighting major controversial issues related to deregulation, market disruption, or social inequality. The authors conclude that, considering the comprehensive and up-to-date materials collected and analysed in the book, it may become an outstanding source of knowledge and a practical tool in the process of expansion of the sharing economy in Europe and beyond.
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- Title
- The Sharing Economy in Europe
- Editors
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Dr. Vida Česnuitytė
Prof. Dr. Andrzej Klimczuk
Dr. Cristina Miguel
Dr. Gabriela Avram
- Copyright Year
- 2022
- Publisher
- Springer International Publishing
- 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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