Aviation Green Investment Program
Frequently Asked Questions:
Why should I give to the Aviation Green Investment Program? The Aviation Green Investment Program began as an alternative for “green-minded” aviators, like you, who want to do more for the environment than other programs can offer. Carbon offset programs at best will yield only break-even results. This program offers you the chance to be part of an organization with a long and proven history of success in caring for our environment, with an eye to the future.
How will my money be used? Donations to the Aviation Green Investment Program will be used to support the mission of the Lindbergh Foundation, which for 30 years has been to support great innovations that foster the environment and keep the planet in balance. We accomplish this mission through our Grants and Award programs.
The Lindbergh Foundation has supported scientific research and education projects in a variety of fields that have touched lives in 26 countries and on every continent.
Because of the Lindbergh Grants program:
We also present an annual Lindbergh Award to an individual who, through his or her life’s work, has made significant contributions toward balancing technology and nature. You may recognize some of these outstanding Lindbergh Award recipients:
Sir Edmund Hillary, first to reach the summit of Mount Everest; the late Samuel C. Johnson, chairman of S.C. Johnson & Son, Inc. and “corporate America’s leading environmentalist;” Dr. Sylvia A. Earle, one of the world’s foremost marine scientists and explorers; Burt Rutan, noted aerospace engineer and winner of the $10 million X PRIZE; Dr. Robert Ballard, deep sea explorer and discoverer of the Titanic; Jim Fowler, one of the world’s best known naturalists and former host of Mutual of Omaha’s Wild Kingdom; Harrison Ford, well known actor, pilot, and environmental watchdog; Dr. Bertrand Piccard, ‘round-the-world balloonist and developer of the Solar Impulse project; Dr. Peter Diamandis, founder of the X PRIZE; and Will Steger, polar explorer devoted to the issue of global warming, and Dr. Michael Fay, conservationist for the Wildlife Conservation Society and National Geographic Explorer-in-Residence, for his creative use of technology in the collection and analysis of data relating to African animal census and geographic distribution.
But, what do you do for aviation? The Foundation has supported several aviation-related research projects. Most recently, three projects were funded for studies to:
• Eliminate the need for highly toxic leaded fuels by allowing the use of jet fuel — or even bio-diesel fuel — in traditional spark-ignition engines;
• Reduce flight distances (and consequently, fuel burn) by using an intuitive 4-D collision avoidance display to allow safe, closer aircraft spacing; and
• Improve aerodynamics by understanding how sharks bristle their scales to
increase efficiency when chasing prey.
We also give a Lindbergh Spirit Award every five years to an individual for pioneering achievements in an aviation career and a spirit and character, which represents the best of this nation. Previous recipients of this award are:
Gen. Benjamin O. Davis, Jr., 1997
Sen. John Glenn, 2002
Capt. Eugene Cernan, 2007
How did you determine the 8 cents per gallon guideline? Eight cents per gallon represents the amount most often cited by current carbon offset programs.
Are there special programs for commercial airlines? Yes, please contact the Foundation office at info@lindberghfoundation.org for details, or call (763) 576-1596.
How often do I pay? You may make your contributions at your convenience. Monthly, quarterly, semi-annually, or annually — whatever works best for you. If you like, we can even remind you. Just let us know.
How can I make my payment? It’s easy to make your payment. Choose one of the following methods:
• Check, made payable to the Lindbergh Foundation, and mailed to the address below:
Lindbergh Foundation
2150 Third Avenue North, Suite 310
Anoka, MN 55303-2200
(763) 576-1596
• Credit Card, click here to make your payment on line, or call the office with your credit card information
• Wire transfers, contact the office for instructions.
Are my contributions tax-deductible? Yes, the Lindbergh Foundation is a 501(c)(3) organization.
What else do I get? I’m glad you asked. As a partner in the Aviation Green Investment Program, you automatically become an Associate of the Lindbergh Foundation. You’ll receive our informative newsletter 2-3 times each year and an attractive embossed certificate, suitable for framing. Plus, you can opt-in to receive periodic e-mail newsletters, notices and invitations to upcoming Foundation events. The Foundation will also acknowledge our Aviation Green Partners at our annual Lindbergh Award Celebration. And, of course, you will receive an attractive decal to display on your airplane so you can show the world that you are sensitive to environmental issues and are taking action.
Congratulations! You have made a wise decision to join the Lindbergh Foundation’s Aviation Green Investment Program.