When it comes to sustainable building, going beyond net zero carbon emissions is possible. At New Frameworks, we’re pushing boundaries with net-negative construction—building homes that not only stand the test of time but also actively benefit the planet. One of the most powerful ways we achieve this is through our Straw Structural Insulated Panels (S-SIPs). These innovative, sustainable panels are designed to maximize energy efficiency, support a healthy indoor environment, and even capture carbon, helping to reverse climate change. Here’s how New Frameworks' S-SIPs are paving the way for a healthier, climate-positive future.

What Are S-SIPs?

Straw Structural Insulated Panels, or S-SIPs, are high-performance prefabricated panels for constructing walls, roofs, and floors. Composed of straw—a renewable byproduct of agriculture—compressed into a structural frame, these panels provide superior insulation and are a powerful alternative to conventional materials like plastic or mineral insulations. This approach helps reduce carbon emissions not just by replacing high-emission materials but by actively storing carbon.

Carbon Storage in Action

What makes S-SIPs particularly remarkable is their carbon-storing ability. During its growth, straw absorbs carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, locking it away in its fibers. In typical grain production operations, straw decomposes and releases this carbon back into the atmosphere. However, when used as a building material, straw remains intact and continues to store carbon over the life of the building, making it a carbon sink rather than a carbon emitter. By integrating straw into S-SIPs, we’re essentially turning homes into long-term carbon-storage units, counterbalancing emissions from other material sources and helping mitigate climate change.

The Meaning of Net-Negative

Unlike net-zero carbon construction, which aims to balance emissions produced with emissions avoided, net-negative construction goes a step further. It means that building materials absorb more carbon than they emit. With S-SIPs, our homes actively pull carbon out of the atmosphere, offsetting the emissions emitted from other materials in the building. The result? A home that doesn’t just minimize its environmental impact but actually contributes to a healthier, more sustainable world.

High-Performance, Climate-Positive Design

At New Frameworks, our S-SIPs are engineered to support high-performance building design. Here’s how they make your home more comfortable and sustainable:

Year-Round Comfort: S-SIPs offer exceptional insulation, keeping homes cool in the summer and warm in the winter without overly relying on mechanical heating and cooling systems. This efficient thermal regulation keeps energy costs low while enhancing indoor comfort.
Moisture and Mold Protection: The vapor permeable nature of straw allows for controlled moisture management, preventing the buildup that can lead to mold, mildew, and structural damage. S-SIPs are also designed to dry efficiently, ensuring a durable and resilient structure.
Fire Resistance: Straw in S-SIPs is densely packed, which limits airflow within the panels and reduces flammability. This provides an additional layer of safety for homeowners, making S-SIPs a viable option for high-performance homes with rigorous safety standards.
Pest Protection: The dense structure of S-SIPs creates an environment less conducive to pests, further contributing to the panels' long-term durability and homeowner comfort.

Healthier, Non-Toxic Living

Beyond energy efficiency and carbon storage, S-SIPs also promote a healthier indoor environment. Made from non-toxic materials, these panels help eliminate the indoor air pollutants commonly associated with conventional building products. With S-SIPs, New Frameworks is creating homes where air quality supports wellness and where materials are chosen with both people and the planet in mind.

Why Choose New Frameworks' Carbon-Storing S-SIPs?

Energy Efficiency: Our S-SIPs provide top-tier insulation, reducing the need for heating and cooling and lowering energy bills for homeowners.
Sustainable and Renewable: Using straw, a byproduct of agriculture, minimizes waste, supports circular economy principles, and conserves natural resources.
Eco-Friendly and Health-Conscious: S-SIPs contribute to a non-toxic, breathable indoor environment that’s safe for people and sustainable for the planet.
Streamlined Construction: Drastically reduce your construction timeline with prefabricated straw-structural insulated panels. Our pre-designed line of home and ADU kits can be assembled in just 1-4 weeks.

Building a Climate-Positive Future, Together

At New Frameworks, we believe that every building can be part of the solution to climate change. Through materials like Straw-Structural Insulated Panels, we’re creating net-negative homes that store carbon, lower emissions, and support a healthier environment. Are you ready to join us in this movement? Reach out to learn how we can help you make your next project not just sustainable but actively climate-positive. Together, we’re building a better future—one carbon-storing, healthy home at a time.