Richard Branson
Billionaire eco-entrepreneur
Richard Branson isn’t the first person people think of when eco-celebrity is mentioned. But some very high-profile promises and campaigns have recently made him a person of interest for the green community.
Known for a slew of Virgin Group companies, from airlines and trains to vodka and cola, record labels and mobile phones, even a health bank to store umbilical cord blood … to call Branson’s efforts varied would be an understatement. It’s true that actions taken by Branson could be considered a little sketchy; everyone knows he’s in it for the money. But doesn’t the fact he thinks there’s money in green technology mean something?
Included in his new eco-ventures is Virgin Fuels, a company set to provide cheaper fuels such as ethanol. It seems his plans for world domination are almost complete. Seriously, he even plans to offer commercial space tourism through Virgin Galactic.
Big-time commitments
Branson, alongside the man who introduced him to the reality of global warming - Al Gore, announced not one, but two significant initiatives to combat climate change. First is the $25 million he’s willing to pay anyone who can find a workable way to capture carbon from the atmosphere. The competition-style challenge will be judged by experts including Gore. It sounds like Branson hopes the carbon capture scheme will offset huge emissions sure to be created by his space travel business.
Branson then pledged to use the profits of his Virgin transportation companies for the next ten years to fight global warming. The amount is estimated to total $3 billion when all is said and done. Branson says he plans to use this money to invest in companies, including some of his own, which are researching and developing alternative fuels.
Eco-islands
Not one to miss out on any money-making opportunities, Branson bought a 124-acre Caribbean island near Necker Island, another of his retreats. Moskito will be an eco-friendly resort alternative, powered by renewable energy and sustainably built, as well as being carbon neutral (which Necker aspires to as well).
Greening the business
As for the Virgin Group, Branson’s companies are working with Envirowise to create or expand environmental plans. Initiatives undertaken include recycling office equipment, awareness campaigns for employees and green printing.
Whether you think Richard Branson and Virgin are in it for profit or personal beliefs, one thing is for sure. If you’re looking for someone to bring attention to climate change and make a dent in solving it, Branson’s about as good a candidate as any.
