ATLANTA — Atlanta residents spoke out Tuesday about the city’s shrinking tree canopy and the impact of development on trees.

Historically, Atlanta’s tree canopy has been affected by single-family redevelopment, but a new Georgia Tech study finds multifamily development has been the biggest contributor to canopy loss over the past five years.

“In general, its bigger pieces of land that are being developed and so more canopy loss,” said study author Tony Giarusso.

The study found tree canopy loss in Atlanta in recent years has been linked to multifamily development.

“Clear-cutting developers are destroying our trees and destroying Atlanta. Georgia Tech tree survey proves this,” according to Chet Tisdale who is a member of the Atlanta Tree Conservation Commission.

Atlanta City Councilmember Jason Dozier says the city could get better outcomes if Atlanta’s 50% tree canopy goal is part of the early discussions about future development projects.

“Not just the number of housing units, not just the number of parking spaces, but also understanding the tree density on sight and what changes are being made,” Dozier said.

Atlanta city officials are working on proposed zoning changes aimed at addressing tree canopy loss.

Officials are also considering incentives to encourage more tree planting and preservation on private property. Residents say protecting Atlanta’s remaining trees should be a priority as the city continues to grow.