issued directly by the municipalities in the form of municipal bonds (Kommunalanleihen) or by utilities. The development Bank KfW also provides long-term credit for up to 30 years (Kommunalkredit) for municipal investments, including water supply and sanitation. According to the professional associations of the sector there is no investment backlog (Investitionsstau). See also EU water policy Sodenbrunnen Further reading BMU/UBA:The German Water Sector - Policies and Experiences, 2001 References External links Profile of the German Water Sector 2011 - Summary UBA Federal Environmental Agency – technical agency under the Ministry of Environment UBA DVGW - An association of professionals and utilities in gas distribution and water supply that assists the federal government in setting technical norms, providing training and advances the professional development of its members DVWG DWA - An association of professionals in water and sanitation and water resources management that assists the federal government in setting technical norms, providing training and advances the professional development of its members DWA VKU - The association of municipal electricity, gas, water and sanitation utilities VKU