While cities in the developing world embrace the chaos and risk inherent in their informal landscapes, the Western world excels at regulation. But this dynamic is starting to change, to the dismay of incumbent industries and establishment regulators.
Over the last two decades, the social web has helped facilitate the "de-formalization of every sector of the economy and society [in the developed world], from transportation, to wellness and healthcare, to travel, to journalism, to humanitarian aid, and on and on and on," argues Nick Grossman, “Activist in Residence” at Union Square Ventures and a Visiting Scholar at the Center for Civic Media at the MIT Media Lab. "In effect, [these platforms] are applying highly formal structures to these 'informal' personal interactions, bridging the gap between the industrial economy and the informal economy."
"Not surprisingly, we’re seeing this conflict unfold as the new informal economy, operating at web scale, draws the ire of both incumbent industries and establishment regulators whose livelihoods it threatens," he explains. "Sharing rides is illegal. Sharing apartments is illegal. Making person-to-person loans is illegal. Even free online education is illegal. For now."
One might draw parallels with the tactical urbanism movement, and the pushback from local authorities that several projects have received.
"Slowly but surely, however, jurisdictions are adapting their regulatory positions to recognize and support the new informal economy, powered by the tools of the social web, and recognizing some of the legal precedents that have allowed the web to thrive," Grossman adds. "The challenge will be to continue pursuing the goals of safety, accountability and equity, while simultaneously embracing this return to the informal."
FULL STORY: How the Social Web is Helping the West Rediscover Its Informal Side
EU's New Rider Directive Poses Challenges to Cash-Strapped Delivery Platforms
The European Union has adopted a new directive aimed at improving working conditions for platform workers and increasing transparency. This new directive goes beyond Spain’s Rider’s Law, aiming for a harmonized set of standards across the E.U.
How the Informal Economy Can Build Resilience
Building sustainable, equitable cities of the future, must take into account the important and often overlooked tasks performed by informal workers.
D.C. Passes New Street Vending Rules
The District’s new regulations lower permit fees, reduce barriers to entry for vendors, and decriminalize vending offenses.
Maui's Vacation Rental Debate Turns Ugly
Verbal attacks, misinformation campaigns and fistfights plague a high-stakes debate to convert thousands of vacation rentals into long-term housing.
Planetizen Federal Action Tracker
A weekly monitor of how Trump’s orders and actions are impacting planners and planning in America.
In Urban Planning, AI Prompting Could be the New Design Thinking
Creativity has long been key to great urban design. What if we see AI as our new creative partner?
King County Supportive Housing Program Offers Hope for Unhoused Residents
The county is taking a ‘Housing First’ approach that prioritizes getting people into housing, then offering wraparound supportive services.
Researchers Use AI to Get Clearer Picture of US Housing
Analysts are using artificial intelligence to supercharge their research by allowing them to comb through data faster. Though these AI tools can be error prone, they save time and housing researchers are optimistic about the future.
Making Shared Micromobility More Inclusive
Cities and shared mobility system operators can do more to include people with disabilities in planning and operations, per a new report.
Urban Design for Planners 1: Software Tools
This six-course series explores essential urban design concepts using open source software and equips planners with the tools they need to participate fully in the urban design process.
Planning for Universal Design
Learn the tools for implementing Universal Design in planning regulations.
planning NEXT
Appalachian Highlands Housing Partners
Mpact (founded as Rail~Volution)
City of Camden Redevelopment Agency
City of Astoria
City of Portland
City of Laramie