When we talk about climate change, it’s usually the most dramatic images that come to mind — rising seas, melting glaciers, and extreme weather. It’s easy to catastrophize when the visual consequences are shoved in our face over and over again. But some of the most dangerous effects of a warming planet are invisible — hiding not in the oceans, but in our own homes.
Mold and mycotoxins thrive in dark, damp places like basements and behind walls. And thanks to climate change, they’re expanding far beyond their usual habitats.
Not all fungi are harmful, of course. But certain strains — like Aspergillus or Stachybotrys — can cause serious health problems, especially for those with chronic illness or weakened immune systems.
So how exactly is climate change fueling the spread of toxic mold? And more importantly, what can you do about it?
At Boulder Holistic Functional Medicine in Boulder, Colorado, we specialize in helping people recover from the effects of mold exposure. But prevention is just as important. Keep reading to learn more about the connection between climate change and mold growth — and what steps you can take to safeguard your home and your well-being.
Fungi, Mold, and Mycotoxins
First, let’s talk about the definitions of fungi and mold, and why some mold produces mycotoxins.
Mold is a kind of fungus that grows in damp, dark places — like basements, bathrooms, or behind walls. Some molds produce harmful substances called mycotoxins, which can contaminate the air or even end up in our food.
Basically, fungi is the bigger category, mold is a type of fungi, and mycotoxins are the toxic leftovers certain molds leave behind.
What causes mold to release mycotoxins?
Mold releases mycotoxins under stress (e.g. electromagnetic frequencies, extreme heat, competition, poor storage conditions). In other words, the more pressure mold is under, the more toxins it gives off. And as the planet heats up, those stressful conditions are only becoming more common.
How Does Climate Change Affect Mold?
One of the most noticeable effects of climate change is rising temperatures. And while we often associate global warming with melting ice caps, it’s also creating the perfect conditions for mold and mycotoxins to thrive.
Warmer, wetter climates are expanding the geographical range of many mold species, allowing them to grow in places they previously couldn’t survive.
On top of that, extreme weather events — like storms, floods, and wildfires — are becoming more frequent, disturbing ecosystems and sending mold spores into the air. These events also cause water damage and indoor moisture, i.e. the perfect conditions for mold to grow inside your home (particularly toxic black molds like stachybotrys).
Fungi as a whole are also adapting. To infect humans, fungi must survive at our body temperature (~98.6°F / 37°C). In warming climates, environmental fungi are evolving to tolerate higher heat — making them more likely to become human pathogens.
In fact, certain strains — like Candida auris — are not only heat-resistant, but also resistant to most antifungal drugs. These “super fungi” thrive in hotter environments and can be incredibly difficult to eliminate once they take hold.
What You Can Do
At Boulder Holistic Functional Medicine, we believe the best defense is awareness — and action. The good news? There are things you can do to protect yourself and your family, starting right at home.
Here are a few simple but powerful steps:
1. Keep your indoor environment dry and clean.
Mold needs moisture to grow. That means fixing leaks quickly, running a dehumidifier in damp areas like basements, and using bathroom fans when you shower. Keep an eye out for musty smells or water stains — they’re often the first signs of mold.
2. Improve your air quality.
Invest in a good-quality HEPA air purifier. Air purifiers help trap mold spores and other toxins before they can affect your health. Our favorite air filter is the Molecule (use code BOULDERHOLISTIC for 15% off!)
3. Test for mold — don’t guess.
If you’ve had water damage or are experiencing unexplained symptoms like fatigue, brain fog, or sinus issues, consider professional mold testing. It’s better to know what you’re dealing with than to wonder. We are happy to guide you to the most accurate tests.
4. Support your body’s detox systems.
Your body naturally detoxifies — but when you’re exposed to mycotoxins, it may need some extra help. A nutrient-rich diet, proper hydration, gentle movement, and targeted supplements can support your liver, gut, and immune system. We can help guide you here with personalized testing and treatment.
5. Stay informed.
Understanding how climate change affects your health is empowering. The more you know, the better decisions you can make — from the food you eat to the air you breathe to the way you care for your home.
6. Advocate for change.
The connection between climate and chronic illness is growing. By speaking up and supporting climate-conscious policies, you’re not just protecting your own health — you’re contributing to a healthier planet for everyone.
We’re here to help.
At Boulder Holistic, we take a whole-body approach to mold and mycotoxin recovery — helping you understand your symptoms, heal your system, and create a safer, healthier home. If you think mold may be impacting your health, reach out. You don’t have to figure it out alone.
Work with Boulder Holistic
As our planet warms, the effects of climate change are showing up in unexpected — and deeply personal — ways. Mold and mycotoxins may be invisible, but their impact on our health is very real. The good news is that with awareness, prevention, and the right support, you can take meaningful steps to protect yourself and your family.
Ready to take the next step? Schedule a consultation with our team and learn how we can help you test and treat mold and mycotoxin exposure. Mold is one of our specialties and we would love to share our knowledge with you!
