Geographical Indications and Products of Origin as Tools for Agroecological Transition of Rural Territories

Dear Colleagues,

Geographic indications (GIs) are markers that link a product to its geographical origin, conveying qualities, reputation, and characteristics associated with the region of origin. Typically seen as tools for protecting traditional products and cultural heritage, the potential for GIs to drive environmental, social, and economic sustainability whilst simultaneously promoting food security and food sovereignty remains underappreciated. This Special Issue seeks to examine and highlight the multifaceted opportunities and challenges facing geographic indications in fostering sustainable practices and development.

The aim of this Special Issue is to highlight the breadth of interrelated dimensions of GIs. These include the following:

Preservation of Biodiversity: GIs help to preserve traditional agricultural practices tied to specific regions, valorizing unique ecosystems and beta- and gamma-species diversity.

Protection of Cultural Heritage: GIs are often deeply rooted in cultural traditions and heritage. Protecting these designations ensures the continuation of traditional knowledge and practices, fostering cultural identity. GIs provide a framework for sustainable development that is rooted in cultural authenticity.

Economic Empowerment of Local Communities: GIs are powerful tools for economic development in rural areas, with particular importance in developing countries. When producers can differentiate their products in the market, commanding higher prices and capturing greater value becomes possible, which helps to alleviate poverty and reduce migration to urban areas, thereby promoting sustainable rural livelihoods.

Environmental Stewardship: By linking product quality to the unique characteristics of the production region, producers are incentivized to maintain the environmental health of their production systems to preserve the integrity of their products, which often take the form of organic farming practices, water conservation, soil health, etc.

Consumer Awareness and Education: GIs empower consumers to make informed choices that align with their sustainability priorities. Highlighting the origin and production methods of a product, consumers can more easily support local economies and environmentally friendly practices.

As referenced above, papers accepted for this Special Issue should target at least one of the following major themes:

• Preservation of biodiversity;
• Protection of cultural heritage;
• Economic empowerment of local communities;
• Environmental stewardship;
• Consumer awareness and education;
• Trade and IP.

Geographic indications are indispensable tools for promoting sustainability across economic, social, and environmental dimensions. By preserving biodiversity, protecting cultural heritage, empowering local communities, fostering environmental stewardship, and raising consumer awareness, GIs contribute to a more sustainable and resilient future for generations to come. As we navigate the challenges of a rapidly changing world, harnessing the power of geographic indications is essential for building a more sustainable global society.

We look forward to receiving your contributions.

Prof. Dr. John Volpe
Dr. Philippe Mongondry
Guest Editors

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• geographical indications
• products of origin
• resilient food systems
• sustainable food systems
• climate change
• rural resilience