3. Evaluation of the data collected and the methodology used

Some of the data collected on wood products is not available in the required format. The postulate of this lies in the fact that this data is secondary data, and does not include information on the environment. Some parts of the FDES framework, particularly the ‘impact’ components are not adequately covered in the CSO publications on wood products. However, it is envisaged that recognised data gaps would be filled in subsequent publications of data on wood products. It is also envisaged that present and future publications of data on wood products and environment statistics in general would assist the Government of Botswana in incorporating environmental aspects in the national development plans.

The methodologies described in this document are in line with today’s technological developments. However, these methodologies were developed by various consultants commissioned by different Departments of Botswana government. It is therefore imperative that these departments should strengthen closer co-operation to build capacity with the aim to maximise use of the methodologies developed.

The use and dissemination of data to related agencies, public, press, and government is depicted in figure 1. The CSO is the focal point in data collection and analysis. Data from the CSO is given free of charge to government departments. Other interested parties pay a given fee to purchase CSO publications.

Figure 1. Schematic representation of use and dissemination of data to related agencies.