Sustainability

Commencement Sustainability Initiatives

Eco-friendly Regalia

Digital Programs

Eco-conscious Regalia

Evolution cap and gowns

We want students to feel great about their incredible achievements and their commencement regalia. The gowns in our Evolution Collection are made from 100% post-consumer recycled plastic, and our rentable Revive gowns are always made from recycled materials. We’re committed to being a responsible partner and making the world a better place for the next generations.

Jostens Responsible Regalia™

Digital Programs

As of 2020, Northeastern moved to produce digital programs for all ceremonies and celebrations to reduce paper waste across the Global University System.

Programs and Livestreams

5 Ways Huskies Can Celebrate Sustainably

Click each topic below to learn more about how you can contribute to a more eco-friendly commencement!

Keep or Recycle Your Gown

All cap and gowns are for students to keep forever! Please save your regalia for memories, or recycle regalia at a textile recycling points. More information about drop-off points will be available at a later date.

In November 2022, Massachusetts banned textiles from disposal. Textiles include clothing, footwear, bedding, curtains, fabric, and scraps of all sizes that are clean and dry. Even if your textiles are worn, torn, or stained, they can still be donated to a textile recycler.

Green Your Graduation Commute

Take public transportation to your ceremony to reduce our carbon footprint during high-traffic commencement season.

Click here to learn more about alternative transportation options to campus.

Eco-Friendly Celebration Decor

We encourage decorations that avoid waste and unnecessary environmental impact. Please avoid balloons and use alternative decorations – consider plants, paper lanterns, art, or reusable decorations.

Sustainable Menu Choices

Use reusable tableware if possible or compostable or recyclable options. Consider plant-based menu options or give guests the choice to opt into meat/dairy.

Digital Invitations

Instead of mailing paper invitations, consider creating a digital graduation invitation. Consider ordering custom digital designs through platforms such as Canva or Etsy.

Northeastern University’s Sustainability

Let’s work together to make Northeastern and our world more just and resilient. We partner across our global university system to connect student projects, teaching and research, community initiatives, campus operations, and capital investments to inspire solutions to the climate crisis. Together, we can generate new ideas and create change. Click the link below to learn more.