For the time being, pyrolysis of unfit used-up sleepers is a good option of pre-treatment to overcome the strict requirements of regulations on burning of sleepers. The charcoal prepared at a maximum temperature of 500 to 600oC, which practically does not contain benzo(a)pyrene and more than 0.03 to 0.05% sulphur, is a clean fuel for domestic or industrial use. Due to the creosote content in the sleeper wood, the caloricity of the pyroligneous vapour is high enough to cover not only the heat consumption of the process, but also for other uses. The process is energetically self-sufficient and environmentally friendly.