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.