Unless you only ever travel on a bicycle and never watch the news or read the newspaper, you probably are aware that gas prices are on the rise. If you were already on a tight budget, then filling up the tank might be draining your account fast. There’s never been a better time to be a treehugger for both personal finance reasons and for the obvious reasons of treating the planet with respect and kindness, but there are ways to do it in small steps and cutting back on gas usage by choices you make behind the wheel.

Although switching to alternative fuel choices would obviously be beneficial to you and the planet, there are a few small changes you can make in your driving habits that can save on gas and make a noticeable difference in the long run.

• Cruise your way to savings
  When you’re on the highway, set your vehicle to cruise control close to the speed limit. You’ll save money by using less gas and the environment will love you for cutting back on the toxins that your car is spitting out.
• No drag racing
  Ok, drag racing is obvious, but you can also avoid quick starts at lights and accelerate from 0 to 60 in a flash. not only will this cut back on gas but it’ll also cut back on the wear and tear of expensive tires!
• Ease up on the brakes
  Unless you need to avoid hitting something, go easy on the brakes. This will help save on gas in the stop and go traffic and will also save on brake jobs in the long run.
• Lighten up
  Unload an weight in the vehicle that you don’t need. For every 100 pounds you reduce, you will significantly save on fuel mileage.