An activated carbon has a pencil hardness of B-6B, pore size of 100-400 ANGSTROM , specific surface area of 150-500 m2/g, pore volume of 1.3-5.0 ml/g, and if desired, CEC of 8-13 and is composed of carbon microcrystals irregularly arranged. The activated carbon can be produced by burning waste tires containing metal wires. The activated carbon can be used for removing SO2 and/or Nox formed by combuation of heavy oil.