Various sources are reporting that billionaire Richard Branson has sold off Mosquito Island (also spelled “Moskito”) in the British Virgin Islands for the sum of $20.5M. The sale apparently happened back in August but only recently came to light.

This is the same island that Branson originally pledged to turn into a model sustainable resort — with 20 villas and a beachfront restaurant powered entirely by wind turbines and solar panels. He purchased the 124-acre beauty back in 2007 mainly because he was worried that someone else would destroy its natural beauty. The island sits only a mile offshore from Necker Island, Branson’s home in the Caribbean.

The billionaire said at the time: “I was terrified Moskito would end up in the wrong hands and be ruined. I want to start from scratch and create the most ecologically friendly island in the world. Come back in five years and you’ll find a mini-Bali with a rainforest in the Caribbean.”

According to the accounts, the buyer, Split Holdings, has reimbursed all of Branson’s development costs to date. Let’s hope they continue the 66-year-old’s vision for a sustainable resort; though something tells me he never would have sold to someone thinking differently.

UPDATE: The rumors are false! Branson is not selling the island, check out our updated story here.

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About Michael dEstries

Michael has been blogging since 2005 on issues such as sustainability, renewable energy, philanthropy, and healthy living. He regularly contributes to a slew of publications, as well as consulting with companies looking to make an impact using the web and social media. He lives in Ithaca, NY with his family on an apple farm.

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