Purpose, Care, and Sustainability: Building Ethical Economies for Ageing World

Abstract

Objective: To explore how the alignment between organizational purpose, care practices, and sustainability can support regenerative and ethical economic models in a context of accelerated population ageing. The paper proposes a framework that positions the care economy as a central response to current social and territorial challenges. Methodology: Qualitative and exploratory approach based on: (1) Interdisciplinary literature review on purpose, ageing, ethics of care, and regenerative economics; (2) Critical analysis of Portuguese public policies on longevity and territorial cohesion; (3) Case study from Alentejo linking sustainability, social responsibility, and active ageing. Originality: The research combines three seldom integrated dimensions: ageing as a driver of social innovation, care as a foundational economic principle, and purpose as strategic orientation. It opens transformative paths for peripheral territories and organizations committed to the common good. Expected Practical implications: Proposal of a reference model for public policy and territorial projects; Support for the creation of local ecosystems of active ageing; Recommendations for ethical and participatory leadership in vulnerable regions.