In today’s globally competitive economy the most progressive and successful cities are moving quickly to lower their carbon emissions and improve the condition of their environments and social conditions. Biocity studio was established in 2006 to benchmark the performance metrics of Australia's major cities and to promote greater awareness of the environmental challenges and opportunities we face. The studio established networks with top tier universities scientists, NGO’s and government to undertake research into global urban sustainability. The biocity studio won an AILA NSW Research and Communications Award in 2007.