Senior IT major Alexander Diaz models the eco-friendly graduation robes (Photo courtesy AE Green) 

For the first time, George Mason University will be using eco-friendly graduation gowns made entirely of recyclable materials at this year's commencement celebrations.

Known as “GreenWeaver” apparel, each gown is made out of fabric spun from molten plastic pellets from an average of 23 recycled plastic bottles, according to maker’s Oak Hall Cap & Gown’s website.

Through AE Green, an umbrella sustainability program for Auxiliary Enterprises, the eco-friendly gowns were brought to Mason this year. 

According to GMU Bookstore General Manager Barb Headley, the bookstore had been searching for some time for sustainable gowns and the “GreenWeaver” line fit.

Daejayon, a new student group on campus that focuses on environmental issues, will be hosting a fashion show this evening, April 28. Titled “Going GREEN on the Runway,” models will strut their stuff while wearing clothes made entirely of recycled materials including garbage bags, newspapers and plastic bottles.

The fashion show will take place in Dewberry Hall from 7 – 9 p.m. and will also feature speakers who will discuss issues currently facing the environment.

With the spring semester winding down it can only mean one thing—Mason Day is on the horizon.

This week, in celebration of GMU’s annual tradition, Program Board along with dozens of other student groups will be providing daily activities leading up to Friday’s celebration.

George Mason University will continue its celebration of Earth Week until April 30. The “week,” which focuses around Earth Day on April 22, spans over a series of several weeks starting in March. The events aim to enlighten members of the community on environmental issues and demonstrate how everyone can help keep the planet healthy.