"Sustainability" as a Strategy for the Reconstruction of Distressed Cities in Iraq

The "green building" is a new concept that attributed to the buildings that provide all the conditions and abilities to protect the environment and support it during its reconstruction and living in it and promote the reality to the best. Therefore, the subject is addressed by dividing the research into five topics, the first, discussing the elements and objectives of "sustainability" and the second, the difference between ordinary buildings and "sustainable buildings". The third discusses with the reconstruction strategy in Iraq, its obstacles, and the afflicted cities. The fourth is the conversion of ordinary buildings into "sustainable buildings". As for the fifth, the results are singled out. Finally, comes the recommendations and sources. The study concluded that "sustainability" support the "sustainable building", by taking environmental elements in all stages of construction. It improves the life of the dwelling person, increases worker productivity and reduces energy, material and resource consumption. A balance was achieved between the biosphere and the residents of the building. Iraq today needs to draw a clear strategy for the reconstruction of destroyed areas and cities, taking into account the criteria of "sustainability", and the criteria of "sustainable design", to achieve balance and keep the environment clean and livable.