A quarter of the 21st century has passed, yet plastic recycling still fails to reduce plastic waste. In Compton, most plastics placed in recycling carts are not recycled but discarded, driven by market economics rather than resident behavior. Only plastics 1 and 2 have limited recyclability; most packaging is non-recyclable. Real solutions require reducing plastic use and holding producers accountable, not relying on sorting illusions.

ALMA Backyard Farms transforms unused urban land into a healing space where community members and returning citizens grow food, rebuild skills, and rediscover dignity. Co-founders Richard Garcia and Erika Cuellar cultivate connection, purpose, and opportunity—creating a lasting model of renewal rooted in land, community, and second chances.