Celebrants at Graduation Urged to Use Biodegradable Confetti
For those celebrating the accomplishments of graduates, using confetti composed of biodegradable paper is highly encouraged as a way to be environmentally conscious.
Biodegradable paper decomposes and won’t pollute the environment. The use of mylar, glitter or plastic confetti is discouraged because the synthetic materials do not decompose and become litter, adding to the burgeoning waste at nearby landfills.
The synthetic confetti also can get washed away in storm drains and pollute the ocean. The health of fish, birds and other animals could be endangered because the colorful bits of plastic could be mistaken for food.
Plastic confetti is difficult to clean up. Using biodegradable confetti will help lighten the workload on crews from Custodial and Recycling Services and Landscape Services, who are tasked with keeping the University Quad looking pristine for the thousands of graduates and their guests.
The 12 Commencement ceremonies will be held from May 17 to May 20 in the University Quad.
Photo Opportunities
Graduates and their loved ones have a myriad of choices when it comes to finding the perfect photo spot to memorialize the occasion.
One of the first locations sits at the main entrance to the university: The 6-foot, green-and-gold letters at The Park at 98.
The park features two overlooks for photographers: One vantage point at the top offers a panorama of the campus and sunset views while the second overlook features the Aratani Japanese Garden as a backdrop. Both overlooks offer scenic spots for graduation portraits.
The multi-leveled terraces and green space at the park also provide photo opportunities.
Other locations across the sprawling campus that boast settings for the perfect graduation photo:
- The Aratani Japanese Garden, especially the lower bridge, provides lush greenery for pictures.
- For the Rose Garden, the best times for photos are early mornings or late afternoons. On clear days, avoid midday because the bright sunlight poses a challenge.
- The University Plaza (old stables) is one of the longest-standing buildings on campus. The arches, courtyard and fountain provide a classic backdrop for graduating Broncos.
- The breezeway in the Student Services Building offers a staging point for photos, especially with University Plaza (old stables) in the background.
- The Bronco statue next to Bronco Commons and the residential suites.
These sites and other spaces for graduation photos can be found on the interactive campus map.
Visit the commencement website to find the schedule and information for graduates, guests and visitors. Read more stories about the class of 2024.