Sustainable Mobility in an Ageing Society: Theoretical Perspectives on Economic Transformation and Policy Design for Transport System Renewal

Author : Elisabetta Venezia

Abstract : Population ageing is hastening structural changes in national economies and is becoming a pivotal factor in the course of economic transformation. This paper formulates a theory-driven analysis of the intersection between ageing-related mobility requirements and the dynamics of economic restructuring, technological advancement, and changes in productive capacity. Utilizing transport economics, political economy, welfare theory, and ecological modernization, the analysis frames sustainable mobility for older adults as both a social necessity and a catalyst for extensive economic transformation. The paper examines the impact of fiscal instruments, pricing frameworks, regulatory frameworks, and strategic public investment on mobility behaviour, sectoral innovation, and the allocation of social and environmental costs. The study evaluates the efficacy of accessible public transport, demand-responsive mobility systems, and assistive technologies in mitigating spatial exclusion while facilitating productivity enhancements, increased labour market participation among older adults, and structural diversification within the transport and technology sectors, through the synthesis of comparative empirical evidence from various economic contexts. The results show that a consistent economic policy across urban development, transport planning, public finance, and innovation strategy is needed to build mobility systems that help people adapt to changing demographics and grow with low emissions. The paper concludes by proposing an integrated conceptual framework that aligns distributive justice, long-term efficiency, and decarbonization objectives with national strategies for economic transformation. This contributes to theoretical discussions on inclusive mobility governance and the evolving economic organization of ageing societies

Keywords : Sustainable mobility, Ageing society, Economic transformation, Transport economics, Political economy, Welfare theory, Mobility governance, Public transport accessibility, Inclusive transport policy, Decarbonization strategies.

Conference Name : International Conference on Economic Transformation and Business Strategy (ICETBS-26)

Conference Place : Mumbai, India

Conference Date : 3rd Jan 2026