by Simone Butler

In this post-millennial world, going green has moved way beyond recycling cans and getting your car smog-checked. An ecological movement is sweeping the land, fueled by alarming statistics on global warming. Unless a paradigm shift happens in the next few years, we may end up like the dinosaurs. Are you doing all you can to be part of this vital change? It's not as difficult as you may think. Maybe you're not able to move back to the land, but you can shop at a local farmer's market. Or, drive a hybrid car, "green" your home with super-insulation or get politically active. What comes naturally to your sign?

Aries (March 21 - April 19)
Use that fiery, red nature of yours to go green, Aries. Bicycle instead of drive whenever possible; it reduces carbon dioxide emissions and does your body a world of good. Be a warrior for change -- plant trees along a traffic-choked street to soak up CO2, run a marathon to raise money to clean up toxic waste dumps, or organize a five-day walk across your state to demand action on global warming. And, be sure to recycle your water bottles along the way!

Taurus (April 20 - May 20)
You're naturally connected to the land, Taurus. You'll communicate a message of earth stewardship by using recycled materials when remodeling, and using natural fertilizers and pesticides in the garden. Try installing attractive eco-resin wall panels or pressed recycled newspaper pulp kitchen counters. Even better, build a natural home super-insulated with straw bales. And, eat less red meat -- cow-generated methane is the second most significant greenhouse gas.

Gemini (May 21 - June 20)
You're a natural educator, Gemini, and people follow your example. Become "carbon neutral" by carpooling with co-workers or classmates. Since you're always on the phone, switch to a socially conscious long-distance plan like Working Assets. Join online communities like Tribe.com, a networking site for green hipsters. Since you tend to have lung problems, combat indoor air pollution by installing houseplants that breathe in harmful toxins and exhale oxygen.

Cancer (June 21 - July 22)
You love to eat, Cancer, so get away from industrialized foods that destroy your body and the environment. Shop at farmer's markets, grow a little backyard vegetable garden or start a family farm. Teach your children to recycle by setting a good example. Green your home with a low-flush toilet or compact flourescent light bulbs. And, keep it pesticide-free -- halt ant traffic with a line of cayenne pepper, and polish your furniture with a blend of olive oil and lemon juice.

Leo (July 23 - August 22)
You love the high life, Leo. But it takes as much fossil fuel to manufacture that snazzy new car as it will burn in its entire lifetime, so buy used or go with a hybrid. Use your leadership skills to plan a march to push Congress to curb emissions. Attend music festivals sponsored by green-minded orgs like Global Inheritance. Pamper your baby face with natural skin care products that don't pollute your pores or the environment. Give green gifts, like those from Oxfam America.

Virgo (August 23 - September 22)
You're a purist, Virgo, so use homemade cleaning products like diluted vinegar for streak-free mirrors, baking soda to scrub the toilet or a banana peel to polish your leather shoes. Feed your pets organic food. Buy locally grown produce, which saves on long-distance trucking fuel. Better yet, grow your own food and compost the remains, or join a neighborhood co-op garden. Cater to your fastidious nature while camping with a portable, environmental toilet.

About the Author
Simone Butler is an intuitive astrologer with more than 20 years of experience in helping people engage with the mystery of their lives. She has taught many astrology classes and workshops. Her daily forecasts are featured in the "Starscroll", and her articles have appeared in "The Mountain Astrologer" magazine. She has worked with 12 Signs, Inc. since 1992. Simone lives in a rural hideaway in Escondido, Calif. with her cat, Queen Bess.