Protected Natural Areas (PNA) and Biosphere Reserves (BR): A New Form of Geographical Indication in Tehuacán-Cuicatlán (Mexico)?

This paper analyses the governance relationships that are built around the generation of distinctive signs of local products in Protected Natural Areas and Biosphere Reserves. The promotion of this type of certification means a new form of Geographical Indication that has been little explored and which, however, implies new forms of marketing and ways of approaching consumers. In these areas, there are specific regulations and management plans that recognise the existence of communities and productive practices. In Mexico there are quality seals linked to the PNAs and RBs: The Collective Seal of the Mariposa Monarca Biosphere Reserve, the Calakmul Collective Seal and in this case we will study the process of forming the seal of the Tehuacán – Cuicatlán Biosphere Reserve. This experience is contextualized in the use of ethical values of authenticity, justice and sustainability that gave rise to the Denominations of Origin, Geographical Indications and organic seals, which are part of the production, marketing and consumption of food today.