NOTTINGHAM Trent University has become the first in the county to sign the Development Education Association's global learning charter.

The charter shows a university's commitment to tackling issues such as climate change and poverty.

So far, nearly 200 organisations have signed the charter, including the British Red Cross, the National Union of Teachers and schools from across the globe.

The charter will be formally launched at a reception at the Houses of Parliament on Tuesday, February 23.

It is being championed by Nottingham South MP, Alan Simpson. Representing the university at the event will be Dr Roy Smith, principal lecturer in international relations from the School of Arts and Humanities.

The DEA is a charity promoting education.