Greener Grads to maximize sustainability of graduation apparel by recovering, reusing and repurposing gowns

Greener Grads, a newly formed sustainability company based out of Grand Rapids, MI launches national initiative to recover, reuse and repurpose over 1,000,000 graduation gowns through partnerships with universities, sustainability organizations and more. The company plans to leverage partnerships, locally and nationally, along with charitable efforts to collect graduation gowns and educate on the extensive environmental impact.

The company will launch partnerships with Kendall College of Art and Design at Ferris State University, Aquinas College, Berea College, University of Louisville, Goodwill Industries of Greater Grand Rapids with plans to expand nationally in 2015.

“The option of recycling graduation gowns is a great opportunity for schools to take the lead in getting this large source of material out of our landfills,” said Kristine Moffett, president of Michigan Green Schools. “This is an activity that can help Michigan boost its recycling volume and also save schools some disposal weight dollars.”

“The type of individual problem solving that Greener Grads displays is exactly what we need to address the challenges we face as we work collaboratively to ensure diverse waste streams are sustainably managed and utilized,” said Matt Flechter, recycling and composting specialist at the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality.

Anyone can participate in collection efforts, as gowns of all ages, sizes and colors are accepted for the recycling programs. Gowns can be dropped off at all Goodwill of Greater Grand Rapids locations or at any participating college.

For more information about Greener Grads or to participate in the movement visit, www.greenergrads.org.