In this study, the feasibility of preparing effective adsorbents from unmitigated agroforestry wastes was investigated. Three different kinds of carbon-like materials were produced by low temperature pyrolysis (LTC, < 500 degrees C) of the raw materials rice husks, eucalyptus sawdust and peach stones. The carbon-like materials were characterized by instrumental methods (SEM,X-RDS,BET,MASRMN,FTIR), physico-chemical adsorption (iodine-, methylene blue- and phenazone-number; acetic acid adsorption isotherm; textile dyes- and carbohydrate adsorption), and heat value determination. The produced materials, which showed appreciable adsorption capacity, can be considered as precursors for the production of active coal or even be used directly as well. (c) 2006 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.