Forget Airbnb: Sharing Economy Blooms During Hong Kong Protests

 By 
Jenni Ryall
 on 
Forget Airbnb: Sharing Economy Blooms During Hong Kong Protests
A girl cools down the crowd with her water spray. Credit: AP Images

HONG KONG -- During these past few days of pro-democracy protests in Hong Kong, a communal spirit has bloomed under the overpasses and on the highways. Groups of people play cards, laugh and relax under shared umbrellas. Stalls have popped up, providing necessities to those who need it -- free of charge. People help each other build beds from newspapers and plastic sheets. Hair cuts are offered -- gratis.

Forget Lyft and Airbnb: This is sharing economy in action.

Here is a look at how people on the streets of Hong Kong are helping each other as they demonstrate for more rights.

Get educated at the local library



Make sure you recycle



Keep up your fitness with free classes


How to keep in shape at the protests #yogs #umbrellarevolution pic.twitter.com/U0DBsqBdlM— Jen Ryall (@jennijenni) October 1, 2014


Clean up after yourself in an orderly fashion


Can't stress enough how organized and classy these protesters are #UmbrellaRevolution pic.twitter.com/JvZlnqteeT— David Stout (@david_m_stout) October 2, 2014


Enjoy free glad wrap


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Glad wrap by the box. Credit: Mashable


Do not disrespect your new home


Get educated

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Protesters enjoy the downtime. Credit: Amanda Mustard / Mashable

Don't forget your manners

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Apologies. Credit: Mashable

Look after the authorities

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A young pro-democracy holds umbrella for a police officer during a demonstration. Credit: AP Images

Get your hair cut for free

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Free haircuts. Credit: Amanda Mustard / Mashable

Leave the place as you found it

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Concerned demonstrators clean the street with paint remover. Credit: Amanda Mustard / Mashable

Play a game of cards with your new friends

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Students play cards during the Hong Kong demonstration. Credit: Amanda Mustard / Mashable

Help each other out

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