The Sharing Economy: A disruptive and transformative change

AirBnB, Craigslist, Homeaway, Car and bike sharing programs--peer-to-peer is not just about illegal media files anymore--it's about everything. An interesting article in the Economist about how the sharing economy is transforming business. Considering that research shows our possessions are part of our self-concept, how will this change our relationships to our things? This is sure to be disruptive to traditional marketing, which tends to pedal ownership. One positive consequence is a reduction in redundant or wasteful consumption and perhaps more mindful, sustainable consumer behavior. On the other hand, these businesses raise serious concerns from a regulatory perspective and quality control will likely prove challenging.

Fertilizer: Consequences of agricultural technology in the developing world

Fascinating National Geographic piece on the use of fertilizer in China. Fertilizer has exponentially increased crop yield, but at a high environmental and economic price that may not be sustainable in the developing world. 

Solar power in Germany: Globalization and destabilization

According to this recent article in Slate, Germany leads the Western world in solar power, but is facing increasing price competition from China. Meanwhile renewables are throwing a wrench into traditional utilities' business model. 

Is green marketing dead? 

This article is a couple of years old, but I don't know if it is any less relevant. Are consumers refusing to vote with their wallet to save the environment? The author suggests giving up. I wonder if instead it is time to innovate and try new approaches.