Current social and ecological crises, often referred to as the Anthropocene and Capitalocene, are reshaping young generations' perceptions of the future (Wallenborst & Pierron, 2019). In response to these challenges, individuals adopt diverse stances, ranging from active mobilization to more discreet adaptation. In this context, Haraway (2016, in Pereira Savi, 2017) emphasizes the need for ethical responsibility in addressing environmental issues, advocating for renewed forms of engagement.To better understand these dynamics, the concept of active life forms (Cohen-Scali et al., 2025) offers a framework for analyzing the adaptation and action strategies developed by young people in the face of the climate emergency. How do these crises influence their personal and professional trajectories ? This qualitative study, conducted in Tunisia with ten young adults, identifies three distinct profiles : Activists, Sensitized individuals and Engaged individuals: integrating sustainable practices into their daily lives without necessarily adopting a militant approach.
The analysis reveals that activists often adopt collective strategies and integrate their engagement into their professional choices. Sensitized individuals express concerns but hesitate to fully commit. Engaged individuals, on the other hand, favor individual changes aligned with their values. These findings highlight the interactions between ecological engagement, future representations, and professional trajectories. They also underscore the tensions between individual aspirations and collective responsibilities, particularly in a context marked by climate uncertainty and unequal access to action opportunities.
Understanding these dynamics is crucial to supporting young people in shaping their futures and proposing pathways to foster an ecological transition driven by diverse forms of commitment