Patrick Durand – Research Director, Hydrologist
June 2021
Patrick Durand developed a model to simulate nitrate flows from agricultural sources in Brittany, at a time when levels were becoming alarming and the first signs were visible in the environment. Very quickly, with the help of researchers, public decision-makers seized on this model to understand the phenomena, anticipate likely developments and thereby inform their decisions. Patrick Durand has built bridges between science and management stakeholders so that everyone involved can make the right decisions.
Discover our thematic dossier
Thematic dossier
From the European Nitrates Directive to green algae plans in Brittany: the contributions of INRAE scientists
Since the 1970s, researchers at the Institute have been studying nitrate flows of agricultural origin from the plot to the catchment area and their impact on the biological balance of aquatic environments. The agri-hydrological models they have developed have provided a better understanding of nitrate flows and helped local players to implement regional policies. With the deployment of plans to combat green algae in Brittany (PLAV), scientists have gradually moved from the position of experts providing advice to that of mediators supporting the various stakeholders by sharing scientific knowledge on the subject. These years of experience have led to the creation of a training course dedicated to new elected representatives who are likely to become involved in the PLAV, capitalising on the knowledge of former elected representatives and on scientific knowledge.
