Langues, communautés virtuelles et durabilité : vers une communication éco-discursive
Languages, virtual communities, and sustainability: towards eco-discursive communication

Summary/Abstract: Virtual linguistic communities now bring together people from all over the world. They have become key actors in addressing numerous issues, particularly those related to sustainable development. However, it is essential that these virtual spaces provide their members with appropriate tools capable of accommodating diverse linguistic needs, so that knowledge and information can be shared effectively. This article examines the role of these platforms in the dissemination of knowledge and in promoting values related to ecological challenges. Through a sociolinguistic approach, supported by semi-structured interviews with 128 participants from various online linguistic communities, the study highlights the connections between discursive practices, digital participation, and environmental engagement. The results show that the success of this “communicational ecology” relies on a balance between linguistic accessibility, technological adaptation, and collaborative participation. Indeed, obstacles such as terminological complexity and the dominance of certain languages, particularly English, hinder truly inclusive participation. Moreover, the interviewees express strong expectations regarding techno-linguistic tools that facilitate the translation, simplification, and contextualisation of specialised content. Finally, the study offers perspectives on how virtual communities can become spaces of eco-discursive mediation, capable of transforming communication practices and strengthening members’ engagement in concrete measures for environmental preservation.

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