What can be used instead of lard?

In baking you can use shortening, in an equal amount. Some folks don't like this texture of pie crusts without lard, but shortening is a bit healthier.

It really depends on what you are using it for. I use the following rule of thumb I got from a cooking show (sorry I can't remember which)

* Equal amount of vegetable shortening * 25 percent more butter or margarine (for baking) * Equal amount vegetable oil (for frying)