Backpackers will tell of the “Ten Essentials,” ten items that you shouldn’t be without in the wilderness, lest you perish some horrid death for want of a waterproof match. Though there is some variation to this list, it basically includes the items in the graphic above.

I am finding that I am in need of a new “Ten Essentials” list for being out and about in Chico’s urban wilderness. So here are my “Sustainable 'Ten' Essentials” for when I bike around Chico, in no particular order:

1) Keys and Wallet (with ID and purchasing power)
2) Beater Bike with Lock and Baskets
3) Geeky Yellow Bike Helmet (so I can be readily spotted and laughed at by skatepunks and SUV drivers alike)
4) Sun Protection, including a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen
5) Water Bottle
6) Backpack with 1-2 empty cloth bags containing 1-2 empty plastic bags (previously used, but clean) in each
7) Snack food from home (to resist the urge to make an unneeded purchase that comes with unwanted packaging)
8) Plan/Route— Using and errand list, I check a map (physical or mental), and plot my path accordingly. Planning a route that makes sense is key to saving time, and, if you are in a car, gas.
9) Container-- If I know in advance that I will be dining out, I will also have with me an enamel bowl with a lid for leftovers to eliminate the need for take-out packaging.
10) Smile--Smiling is a sustainable renewable resource.

Anything that I missed?