Sustainable Tourism Law

522 SUSTAINABLE TOURISM LAW Finally, also in this theoretical proposal, collective intellectual property rights constitute a structural element of the district, since they facilitate the development of products based on culture and linked to a geographical area. CONCLUSIONS This chapter focuses on the study of appellations of origin as a legal tool with the potential to contribute to sustainable tourism development. Taking as a starting point how agricultural products recognized for their quality play an important role in the decision to visit a destination and live an immersive experience in the culture and territory from which they come. In the same way, appellations of origin have the capacity to symbolize the cultural capital of a territory. It would be advisable to carry out an integral, theoretical and legislative approach to this institution, which considers non-commercial aspects and enhances its public functions. This way, the AO will not only be a distinguishing sign that benefits a group of entrepreneurs in a territory, but also a symbol of the culture and territorial identity, which represents and defends the interests of different stakeholders. Regardless of the destination model, the AO are a useful tool in the framework of sustainable tourism development policies. While it is true that not all destination models offer the possibility of implementing AO, those where the organisation is favourable to them will have one more instrument to influence the three dimensions of sustainability. In particular, destinations organized in a cultural district not only provide a more conducive environment for adopting collective intellectual property systems, but also benefit from the economies of agglomeration, entrepreneurship, creativity, trust and cooperation rooted in these structures. All of which contribute to and enhance the social, economic and cultural aspects of a territory. Finally, this study leads to the conclusion that a holistic view of AO broadens their areas of influence and, consequently, their impact on the three dimensions of sustainable development. However, since this is a theoretical-legislative research, it is essential to develop empirical and comparative studies that allow us to evaluate the role of the AO in the destinations, especially in those that have a cultural district model.

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