Outlook India — Indian Responsible Tourism State Awards Meghalaya 2023-2025
Sustainable Trophy Design
27 September 2023
STEP 1
The Problem Statement
Tourism awards celebrate sustainability, yet the trophies themselves are often:
acrylic or resin
mass manufactured
culturally generic
environmentally contradictory
The awards were recognising responsible tourism practices, but the physical symbol of recognition did not reflect the values being honoured.
This created a disconnect:
An award for sustainability
made using unsustainable materials
with no connection to place.
STEP 2
The Design Question
How might a trophy itself become an ambassador of responsible tourism in Meghalaya?
STEP 3
Research Insights
Through discussions with tourism stakeholders, artisans and event organisers, we identified:
• Award objects are photographed and circulated widely in media
• Winners often display trophies publicly in their establishments
• The trophy becomes a long-term storytelling object
• Outlook Responsible Tourism wanted stronger representation of local identity
We recognised the trophy was not just a commemorative object —
it was a mobile communication tool for the State
STEP 4
The Design Solution
We designed a sustainable trophy rooted in the visual language of Meghalaya’s identity and heritage.
The trophy:
uses natural and responsibly sourced materials and finishes
avoids plastic and acrylic components
emphasises weight,tactility, and permanence
references local crafts and artisnal skill
STEP 5
Outcome
• Adopted as the official trophy for the Meghalaya edition of the awards
• Used across multiple award cycles (2023–2025)
• Strengthened visual identity of the Responsible Tourism initiative
• Increased visibility of local design within state-level events
