The main results of an experimental work on gasification of Colombian coal in a fluidised bed are reported in this paper. Experiments were carried out at different steam/coal (F-s/F-c) and air/coal (F-a/F-c) ratios and temperatures of gasifying agent. In addition, the influence of bed temperature on coal conversion was analysed. Results show a maximum value in the curve of high heating value versus F-a/F-c. From the environmental standpoint, low concentrations of sulphur compounds were obtained but more work should be done in order to decrease particulate matter. (C) 2002 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.