It might surprise people to hear that receiving a “C” for the quality of our air is a good thing.

The average rating looks bright in comparison to 11 other counties in South Carolina that received an “F” rating from the American Lung Association’s “State of the Air” study done this year.

The grade comes from the National Ambient Air Quality Standard and is used by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to determine whether the air quality in a county meets the standard.

While Pickens County was found to have an average ozone percentage of 8.3, Oconee County ended with a smaller percentage of only 2.0.

Ozone or smog is the most widespread form of air pollution, causing wheezing and provoked asthma attacks.

It is different from particle pollution (PP), however, as particle pollution is the most dangerous type of air pollution, according to officials.

“It is a toxic mix of microscopic soot, diesel exhaust, chemicals, metals and aerosols,” said June Deen of the American Lung Association. “It is the most dangerous and deadly of the outdoor air pollutants that are widespread in America. Breathing in particle pollution can increase the risk of early death, heart attacks, strokes and emergency room visits for asthma and cardiovascular disease.”

Oconee County was given a “B” for its overall levels of particle pollution.

Of course, heavy traffic areas have the highest concentration of these particle pollutants, while coal-fired plants emit high levels as well.

According to the EPA, more than 186 million Americans live in counties where air pollution endangers their lives. This includes over 40 million people in counties where the air failed every test.

While Oconee County experienced six Code Orange days in 2009, Pickens County counted 25 of them. When orange, it is deemed that the air has an unhealthy percentage of pollutants, but Code Red and Purple days are much worse. Neither county experienced any red or purple days.

“Pollution in the Upstate comes from coal-fired power plants, diesel traffic on our highways and our spread-out communities that make us all drive more,” Deen said. “We have much to do to ensure that everyone has healthy air to breathe.

“We encourage all residents to take steps to reduce air pollution, such as driving less and shutting off lights when you leave a room.”

For more information on fighting for healthy air, visit http://lungaction.org/campaign/SOTA2009