‘Zero-energy companionship’: bizarre hobby takes seed among China’s stressed young adults
Summary
Some young adults in China are raising bricks by watering them and waiting for moss to grow, describing the hobby as inexpensive, low effort and emotionally comforting. The trend has drawn millions of views on Weibo, while experts have warned that moss may cause mould and allergy symptoms.Key Facts
- A social media hashtag about raising bricks has received more than 5 million views on Weibo.
- Brick owners spray their bricks with water and wait for moss spores in the air to grow.
- A brick owner said the hobby gave them a sense of accomplishment similar to completing a long-term project.
- Some Chinese commentators connect the hobby to young people seeking low-effort ways to find meaning and companionship.
- The article says nearly one in five Chinese people aged 16 to 24 who are not students are unemployed, according to official statistics.
- China’s birthrate fell to a record low last year, according to the article.
- Experts have cautioned that growing moss can encourage mould and may cause itchy eyes or a runny nose.
- Retired moss professor Xuedong Li advised handling mossy bricks with disposable gloves and a mask, preferably in an enclosed environment.
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