As the population on earth continues to grow rapidly and talk of the impact global warming will have on future generations increases, Virgin founder Richard Branson and Google co-founders Larry Page and Sergey Brin have had enough and decided to take matters into their own hands.

The three businessmen (not to be confused with the three wisemen) have collaborated to develop Project Virgle, which they have also labeled "Plan B." In 2014, the pioneers plan to take some loyal followers and travel to Mars to form the first permanent human colony on the planet.

The organizers claim that "your life might be extinguished in a fiery instant of catastrophic technological malfunction. But your enriched descendants will appreciate your sacrifice, which should render worthwhile your choice to spend the rest of your (perhaps radically foreshortened) life in deprivation and uncertainty."

Hit the jump to take a quiz that will "test your Pioneering potential" and learn more about Project Virgle, including some job postings and how you can sign up to be one of the settlers in this new civilization.

Experts meanwhile are denouncing the idea that life on Mars offers a legitimate solution to the aforementioned global issues, pointing out the once Branson and his grossly inflated ego take up residence in the new colony, there will be little room for anyone or anything else.

» Google