From Plastic-Based Homes to HempLime Healthier Housing on Lower Sioux Land

Healthy Materials Lab (HML) at Parsons School of Design, presents a comprehensive research report examining the material composition of typical American manufactured homes and outlining a clear pathway toward healthier, regenerative housing. Working with Earl Pendleton of the Lower Sioux Indian Community, this research and report support their case to build a vertical hemp economy “from seed to sovereignty”. Earl’s vision for the Hemp and Housing Project is to build future housing from hemplime, leveraging their connection to the land and agricultural capabilities.

Titled Analyzing the Materials of Typical American Manufactured Homes to Make the Case for Healthier HempLime Housing on Lower Sioux Land, the report quantifies the extent to which petroleum-derived plastics and chemically intensive materials dominate conventional, affordable, manufactured housing. Vinyl flooring, acrylic paints, fiberglass insulation, and other common building products are shown to emit toxic substances that residents inhale, ingest, or absorb through their skin.

Plastic-based materials account for the majority of interior surface area in a standard manufactured home, exposing residents to toxic chemicals linked to asthma, cancer, and developmental disorders.

In response to these health and environmental risks, the Lower Sioux Indian Community is advancing a bold “Seed to Sovereignty” model that integrates regenerative hemp farming, local material processing, and the construction of non-toxic, energy-efficient housing on tribal land. This vertically integrated approach addresses material toxicity, climate impact, and economic resilience simultaneously.

Beyond carbon reduction, the research demonstrates how transitioning to plant- and mineral-based materials, such as linoleum flooring, solid wood, and mineral silicate paints, significantly reduces the presence of carcinogens and endocrine disruptors throughout interior spaces. 

By manufacturing their own building materials, the Lower Sioux Indian Community is strengthening local worker skills, advancing self-determination, and building long-term economic sovereignty - their Seed to Sovereignty model demonstrates that regenerative agriculture, material health, and economic self-determination can be achieved through housing.

This report offers a replicable model for rural, tribal, and underserved communities seeking healthier alternatives to plastic-based manufactured housing. It demonstrates that non-toxic, cost-competitive, and carbon-sequestering housing solutions are not only possible but ready for implementation.

Download the full report to explore the material analysis, carbon calculations, and pathways toward healthier housing futures.