In Portland, Oregon, where I believe the eco conference was held, most airbnb host-absent "entire place" rentals are illegal. Also, turning residential property into temporary "office space" in a city with a housing shortage goes beyond your average tourist. There are plenty of business hotels like Marriott's Residence Inn that offer kitchens and home-like suites. There is no need to take long-term rentals off the market to satisfy business travelers.

I am sure the number of airbnb business travelers is increasing. However, I believe that most "road warriors" really prefer hotels where they have a 24-hour front desk, room service, secure parking and cabs at the curb. Conventioneers or those attending or exhibiting at trade shows are the most likely exception since they view themselves as semi on vacation.

To learn how cities around the world are attempting to appropriately regulate airbnb check www.TheAirbnbAdvisor.com .