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Hudson Straw Tiny Home Sequesters Carbon, Outshines Brick Construction

5/10/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Professor Paul Lewis of Princeton University built a straw-based tiny home near Hudson, New York.
He notes that the built environment accounts for roughly 40 percent of global carbon dioxide emissions.
Lewis argues that a straw house sequesters carbon.
He says wood houses are moderate, whereas brick houses act as carbon bombs.
Structural engineer Guy Nordenson says that making straw as viable as bricks or concrete will require further research.

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Story summary

Professor Paul Lewis of Princeton University built a straw-based tiny home near Hudson, New York.
He notes that the built environment accounts for roughly 40 percent of global carbon dioxide emissions.
Lewis argues that a straw house sequesters carbon.
He says wood houses are moderate, whereas brick houses act as carbon bombs.
Structural engineer Guy Nordenson says that making straw as viable as bricks or concrete will require further research.