I'm sure there is a degree of self publicity associated with Branson's actions (he's not the sort to make an anonymous donation is he?
) but why should we care what his motives were? The struggle to reduce our dependence on fossil fuels needs all the help it can get and technological solutions seem to show more promise than attempts to change behaviour. As such, he should be applauded in the hope that this will encourage others billionaires to act in a similar manner.
Matt