The caps and gowns students don for commencement this weekend will be UB blue, but they’ll also be green — not in color, but in their contribution to sustainability.

According to UB’s “Countdown to Commencement” website, “All bachelor and master attire is made from acetate fiber which is produced using wood from renewable, managed forests. The fabrics and packaging both completely decompose in soil.”

This is the sixth year for compostable robes at UB; the university began using the eco-friendly gowns from the Jostens Elements Collection in 2010-11.

“We’re being environmentally conscious,” says William J. Regan, director of special events. “I guess the zippers are even compostable.”