Title: JUE Insight: Do Ride-Sharing Services Cause Urban Air Pollution?

Authors: Liu Yi, Li Yao, Pang Jindong (Corresponding Author)
Journal: Journal of Urban Economics, 2025, Vol. 149, 103799

A groundbreaking study examining the impact of ride-sharing services on urban air pollution across 284 Chinese cities reveals that these services significantly improve air quality. Contrary to theoretical ambiguities, empirical analysis of daily panel data demonstrates a consistent reduction in air pollution levels following the introduction of ride-sharing platforms.

Key Findings:

• Pollution Reduction: Cities experienced an average decline of at least 3% in air pollution after ride-sharing services were launched.

• Mechanisms: Ride-sharing alleviates peak-hour traffic congestion, reduces new vehicle registrations, and increases public transportation usage.

• Policy Implications: The study quantifies environmental benefits and provides actionable insights for regulators seeking to balance ride-sharing industry growth with urban sustainability goals.

Published in the Journal of Urban Economics (ranked A-level in Wuhan University’s journal classification), this research offers the first large-scale empirical evidence of ride-sharing’s positive environmental impact in China. The findings are particularly relevant for policymakers designing transportation and environmental regulations in rapidly urbanizing economies.

Full Study:
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jue.2025.103799