Author provides a simplified look at infrastructure

Where does it all come from? Where does it all go? Toronto’s water, energy & waste systems, by Mariko Uda (CNW Group/ecomariko)

Infrastructure is not the most common topic found on the shelves of a library or bookstore, but that was no barrier for Mariko Uda, an ecologically minded author, illustrator and environmental educator who holds a doctorate in civil engineering from the University of Toronto.

Her debut book, Where does it all come from? Where does it all go? Toronto’s water, energy & waste systems, aims to connect readers of all ages to the environment and systems that support them in their daily activities.

Through diagrams and maps, readers learn where their water, sewage, stormwater, electricity, natural gas and garbage come from or go to. Presented as a children’s picture book, the story is a quick and informative read for older students and adults as well. Uda says that the topic will interest anyone who wants to learn about infrastructure and urban and environmental issues. Readers can make use of the book’s list of useful links to find further information.

“Once we know where it all comes from and where it all goes, we are no longer lost and alone, but strongly grounded in our knowing of exactly how we are connected to the environment that supports us each and every day,” explains the author.

The book is available at select stores in Toronto, as well as at www.ecomariko.com.