The presentation highlights the methodology for determining the ecological footprint of air handling units. Using the example of an air handling unit for a production and filling line for pharmaceutical products, it will be shown how intelligent technologies open up new perspectives in terms of sustainability. Study results from a life cycle assessment show that the utilization phase of these air handling units has an even greater influence on overall efficiency than previously assumed. With the help of these findings, it is necessary to question and rethink the planning of air handling units.