Analysis on the Development Path of Sharing Economy

Abstract

In recent decades, the sharing economy has undergone a paradigm shift—evolving from localized, informal resource exchange among acquaintances to a global, platform-centric service ecosystem that reshapes resource allocation, consumption patterns, and labor dynamics across multiple sectors. This study systematically examines the evolutionary trajectory of the sharing economy, identifies its core driving factors, and critically assesses the challenges inherent in its platform-based expansion. By dividing the sharing economy’s development into three distinct stages (germination, expansion, and adjustment) and integrating case studies of prominent platforms (e.g., Airbnb, Uber, Turo, Rent the Runway), the research reveals how technological innovation, shifting consumer demand, and policy dynamics have collectively fueled its growth. Additionally, the study highlights key bottlenecks, including regulatory lag, trust deficits, and unintended social and environmental consequences, which threaten the sustainability of the sharing economy. Ultimately, this analysis aims to construct a holistic framework for understanding the evolution of sharing economy, offering actionable insights for policymakers, platform operators, and researchers to promote its equitable and sustainable development.