'24' becomes first carbon neutral TV show

Fox has announced that 24 will become the world's first "carbon neutral" TV series.

Speaking to The New York Times, studio chairwoman Dana Walden assured fans that the measures being taken to lower carbon emissions will not impact on the programme.

"No-one is kidding themselves that viewers want to see Jack Bauer stop in the middle of an action scene and deliver some line about the environment," she said, adding that the result should provide "a more gratifying viewing experience, even if it is at a more subconscious level".

Consultants have been hired to measure the carbon dioxide output from production, while motion sensor lights have been installed in communal areas. Cast and crew have begun sharing scripts electronically and more economically-friendly fuel has been used for trucks and generators.

However, producer Howard Gordon insisted that the green campaign will not alter the look or feel of the show.

"If we’ve needed a car chase, we’ve had a car chase,", he said. "Our obligation is first and foremost to the fans. If we have budget cuts and need to save money, then we’ll have fewer car crashes."

Instead of axing the show's signature action scenes, bosses have decided to counter the environmental effect by purchasing carbon offsets in India.

"We are arguably the worst possible offender, which is why, in a way, it made sense to start with us," said Gordon. "If we can do it, anyone can."