Kal Glanznig

Kal Glanznig is a youth environmental advocate whose work brings together education, storytelling and community action. Based in Sydney’s Sutherland Shire, he has developed projects that encourage young people to participate in protecting the environment and contribute to decisions affecting their communities.
While still in high school, Kal led a campaign to install a solar system at his school. The project secured government funding and helped encourage other schools to explore solar energy.
He later co-founded Plastic Free Cronulla, an initiative working with local businesses, schools and community members to reduce single-use plastics. The group also contributed to advocacy for restrictions on single-use plastics in New South Wales.
Kal created the documentary Rising Up, which explores ocean pollution and climate change through stories from communities and young advocates. The film has been shared at schools, community screenings and festivals. He also co-founded Blue Minds, a program that helps young people explore ocean conservation, develop leadership skills and respond to feelings of concern about the environment.
In 2024, Kal was elected as an independent councillor on Sutherland Shire Council. He has represented young Australians at United Nations climate conferences and is an ambassador for Take 3 for the Sea.
His community work has been recognised with the 2020 Sutherland Shire Young Australian of the Year and 2023 Environmental Citizen of the Year awards. His experience spans local projects, filmmaking and public advocacy, with young people and the environment at the centre of his work.