ABSTRACT
Geographical indications (GIs) are ‘indications which identify a good as originating in the territory of a Member, or a region or locality in that territory, where a given quality, reputation, or other characteristic of the good is essentially attributable to its geographical origin’ (TRIPS Agreement). Famous examples of GIs include Darjeeling tea, Champagne, and Café de Colombia. While primarily established for economic and commercial purposes, the functions of GIs have evolved to embrace the preservation of traditional knowledge and natural resources. This chapter will show how the ability of GIs to contribute to the Commons lies in their specific nature and intrinsic qualities, which are themselves derived from their link to origin as translated through the use of local resources in the production process. Drawing upon the case study of the French Lentilles vertes du Berry, this chapter will also emphasise the importance to consider the collective action dynamics involved in designing the product specifications and managing the GI initiatives when addressing the relationship between GIs and the Commons.
