When TikTok became inaccessible in the U.S., millions flocked to Xiaohongshu (RedNote), resulting in a 200% download increase. This shift enabled cross-cultural engagement, allowing Americans and Chinese users to share insights about daily life and demonstrating the power of human connection.

A growing number of Chinese ultramarathon athletes are running races in the United States, bringing a new glimpse of our nation back home to China. Meanwhile, Americans are learning more about the Chinese and their competition style, building bridges over gaps in culture and language.

The U.S. and China are some of the largest concrete producers, presenting both a challenge and an opportunity. This story by our Nature Contributor and environmental photographer, Kyle Obermann.