Tristan Schwiethale is only 6 years old, but he already has big plans to change the way the world recycles.

“His passion in life is taking care of the earth,” said Naomi Glass, Tristan’s mother. “He’s been recycling since he could walk.”

The Northwood first-grader’s dedication has led him down a path of community service. He gave a presentation to preschoolers at the Stroum Jewish Community Center (SJCC) about recycling, which was recorded by Republic Services. He started his own recycling service for salvaged metal, which can’t go in curbside bins. And he has become a fixture at the weekly Mercer Island Farmers Market, helping to sort recyclables and compost and teaching people what goes where.

“He’s interested in everything going into the garbage, and he’s always liked to sort things,” Glass said. “It bothers him that people don’t put things in the right places.”

He brings a safety vest, sorting tool and gloves to the market each week to do his job. On Sunday, he was awarded with a “Market Cultivator” certificate, a new sorter tool and reusable gloves.

Tristan said that he doesn’t like playing with toys, and that he was “born to work.” He enjoys his job at the market, especially when other kids come over and want to help, or when he can help somebody who looks confused when walking up to the bins.

Mercer Island Farmers Market Manager Patty Spahr said that Tristan is not only the market’s youngest volunteer, but also one of its most dedicated.

The Mercer Island Farmers Market has had a “zero waste” goal since its inception in 2008, and is celebrating its ninth season this year.

It closes its regular season on Oct. 9, but there’s a harvest market on Nov. 20.