Access economy and sustainable development: Synergy or conflict? Cover Image

Access economy and sustainable development: Synergy or conflict?
Access economy and sustainable development: Synergy or conflict?

Author(s): Justyna Ziobrowska-Sztuczka, Łukasz Olipra
Subject(s): Business Economy / Management, Socio-Economic Research, Green Transformation
Published by: Wydawnictwo Uniwersytetu Wrocławskiego
Keywords: access economy; sustainable development; sustainable consumption;

Summary/Abstract: The aim of this article is to identify the interdependencies, complementarities, and potential conflicts between the access economy model and the concept of sustainable development. As the access economy becomes an increasingly prevalent alternative to traditional ownership and consumption models, a key research question emerges: Does the access economy support or threaten the achievement of sustainable development goals? This study employs a combination of critical literature analysis, document analysis, and a diagnostic survey. These methods were used to examine the perceived impact of access economy solutions on sustainability, as well as to explore the broader implications of this economic model for environmental, social, and economic sustainability. Research Hypothesis states that the majority of individuals using access economy solutions perceive them as contributing positively to sustainable development. The findings suggest that the access economy has the potential to support sustainable development by optimizing resource use, reducing overproduction, and minimizing waste. However, the study also identifies concerns that this model may encourage short-term consumption behaviors and contribute to the destabilization of traditional socio-economic structures. These mixed outcomes highlight the need for further research into the conditions under which the access economy aligns with sustainability goals, as well as the policy frameworks necessary to mitigate its potential risks.

  • Issue Year: 31/2025
  • Issue No: 2
  • Page Range: 21-38
  • Page Count: 18
  • Language: English
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