We're going to get started. It's Thursday afternoon, and I know that some people have flights later—and not that much later. In the interest of being timely, we're going to get started.
I call this meeting to order. Welcome to meeting number 98 of the House of Commons Standing Committee on Science and Research.
Today's meeting is taking place in a hybrid format. All witnesses have completed the required connection tests in advance of the meeting.
I'd like to remind all members of the following points.
Please wait until I recognize you by name before speaking. All comments are to be directed through the chair. Please raise your hand, members, if you wish to speak, whether participating in person or via Zoom. The clerk and I will manage the speaking order as best we can.
For those participating by video conference, click on the microphone icon to activate your mic, and please mute yourself when you are not speaking. There is interpretation for those on Zoom. You have the choice, at the bottom of your screen, of the floor, English or French. Thank you all for your co-operation.
I want to welcome MP Coteau, who is on the screen. He is taking the first hour for MP Diab. Thank you for covering for us.
Pursuant to Standing Order 108(3)(i) and the motion adopted by the committee on Thursday, May 23, 2024, the committee resumes its study of innovation, science and research in recycling plastics.
It's now my pleasure to welcome, as an individual, Dr. Benoît Lessard, professor and Canada research chair, from the University of Ottawa; from Dow Canada, W. Scott Thurlow, senior adviser, government affairs; and by video conference, from Nova Chemicals Corporation, Sarah Marshall, vice-president, polyethylene marketing.
Up to five minutes will be given to each of our witnesses for opening remarks, after which we'll proceed with rounds of questions.
Dr. Lessard, I invite you to make an opening statement of up to five minutes. The floor is yours.