All that graduates need to know about their graduation attire

The price of a graduation gown may be more than you expect as a result of an noncompetitive market.

Graduation by Ramada Sutton Hotel

Gowns tend to cost an average of £40-50 to hire and photography can cost £30-150.

Something that many may be unaware of is that often Universities receive commission on the gowns and photography that they recommend and supply to students.

For instance, the University of Reading receives 20% from gowns and 50% from photography at graduation ceremonies.

Many Universities benefit from the 20% commission from every robe rented or purchased by a student, racking up the costs for the student who is likely already out of pocket.

Photo by Suzy Hazelwood from Pexels

Regardless of the price of there are some serious problems with the production of polyester and other artificial based clothing materials.

Artificial or synthetic clothing materials were introduced in the second world war, providing a quick, cheap and reasonably durable material as at the time it was necessary to produce clothing and equipment quickly on a vast scale.

Now the majority of clothing produced is made from artificial materials and synthetic fibres.

These synthetic fibres make up 70% of the worlds production of fibres that harm our environment.

But why should we not wear these cheaper synthetic materials which dominate the shelves?

Video on synthetic fibres by Lana's Llama

Not only are graduation gowns expensive to hire or buy but they are harmful to the environment.

Furthermore, the processes of recycling plastic bottles into gowns is positive in some aspects as it reduces the plastic waste which would otherwise be in landfill.

However, this process is just as harmful for the environment. Microfibers will be produced and when washed will be released into the ocean to be ingested by animals and then by us.

But what are microfibers?