Since the start of railways, millions of timber sleepers have been installed all over the world. However, in order to preserve them, they require treatment with creosote, which is known for having a negative environmental impact when it leaches into the soil and ground water, and also for having carcinogenic effects. For this reason, as of 2018, the use of creosote is forbidden in a number of countries in the European Union. In The Netherlands, it has already been forbidden since 2005. The use of tropical hardwood, also known for having a negative environmental impact (deforestation), offers no real alternative, as its availability is decreasing. Lankhorst has developed a range of KLP® Hybrid Polymer Sleepers made from 100% recycled polymers that offers a sustainable and maintenance-free alternative to timber sleepers.

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