Sharing Economy – Really a contribution to sustainability?

A 2018 study by the German Economic Institute examined the economic significance of the sharing economy and came to the conclusion that it is low in the area of ​​everyday objects. In the mobility sector, however, things look different: car sharing and ride-sharing continue to develop dynamically and supposedly reduce the use of other modes of transport.

The business psychologist Sonja Deborah Eisele wanted to know what determines whether sharing platforms are used. In her study, she focused on so-called peer-to-peer platforms (P2P), where everyone involved has equal rights and can be both a provider and a consumer. The best-known include eBay Kleinanzeigen, Too Good To Go and Vinted.

Eisele's study suggests that the “convenience” factor seems to be the deciding factor when it comes to the use and added value of an exchange app. Other factors such as “sustainability awareness”, “cost efficiency” or “consumer awareness” are of secondary importance. Apparently, the consumer with an affinity for exchange also wants things to be simple above all else. In addition, men seem to be significantly less inclined to use exchange platforms than women. And in general, Sonja Deborah Eisele found in her research that consumers had a pronounced distrust of sharing providers.

What follows from this? Discuss this with the author, who, despite the sobering results of her research, is committed to a “sharing economy oriented towards the common good” with action more value.