For the soldiers, diplomats, and contractors who rotated through the Green Zone (GZ) during the height of the war, the experience was profoundly disorienting. It was often described as the "Emerald City"—a reference to The Wizard of Oz that highlighted its artificiality.
The Iraqi government is currently investing in turning the former palaces into museums and public parks. The goal is to reclaim the waterfront of the Tigris. If successful, the could transform from a symbol of occupation into a national heritage site—a "Central Park" for Baghdad. Green Zone
Cities use classifications to restrict industrial activity, promote walking and cycling, and increase property values through "biophilic design." For the soldiers, diplomats, and contractors who rotated