From a tiny acorn to a mature oak. Isn't it amazing how little things can end up having an enormous impact on the environment? That's why Volkswagen and the National Trust have joined forces to bring you these simple eco-friendly, fuel-efficient driving tips.

If we all follow these tips, CO2 emissions from cars could be reduced by up to 8 per cent - saving motorists over £2 billion a year in fuel costs. So imagine what a big difference we could achieve if we all made a few changes to our driving habits.

Here are some small changes that can help cut carbon emissions:

• Under-inflated tyres create more resistance when your car is moving, so your engine has to work harder. It means more fuel is used and more CO2 emissions are produced.

• Avoid using well known traffic jam black spots. Try combining your trips or car sharing with others.

• Clutter in your boot is extra weight for your engine to carry around. By removing it, you could reduce your engine's workload, which will burn less fuel and cut CO2 emissions. So unload any items you don't need for your journey before you set out.

• Staying at or within the speed limit increased driver safety. It also reduces CO2 emissions and saves money on your petrol costs. At 70mph you could be using up to 9 per cent more fuel than at 60mph and up to 15 per cent more fuel than at 50mph.

• By anticipating the road conditions ahead, you can avoid any harsh breaking and acceleration which dramatically increase fuel consumption.

• Sitting stationary for long periods of time, say when stuck in a traffic jam, wastes large amounts of fuel. Turn off the engine whenever it is safe to do so.

• To minimise your fuel consumption, change up a gear before you hit 2,500rpm (petrol) or 2,000rpm (diesel).

• A well maintained vehicle keeps fuel efficiency high. Even a clogged air filter can increase the amount of fuel you use and increase your CO2 emissions.

• Don't wait for the engine to warm up. It causes rapid engine wear and uses unnecessary fuel.