Puerto Ricans Rebuild Without Government Help After Hurricane Maria
(Cristina Moody)
After the monthslong power blackout that followed Hurricane Maria in 2017, Puerto Ricans realized they couldn't rely on government to meet their basic needs. Enter Biotecture Planet Earth, a New Mexico–based nonprofit that specializes in sustainable building. The organization is constructing an off-grid, hurricane-resistant compound in Aguada, Puerto Rico. Built largely out of garbage such as tires and cans, the buildings include systems that provide electricity, collect water, and grow food. The compound will serve as an education and community center.