Climate frameworks must better account for river ecosystem responses and feedbacks

River ecosystems worldwide are increasingly affected by hydroclimatic extremes, global warming, and multiple anthropogenic disturbances. Yet, climate assessment frameworks insufficiently account for changes in river ecosystem functioning, the resulting ecosystem responses, and the associated climate feedbacks. Here, we propose that integrating these processes into climate assessment and mitigation frameworks is essential for reducing carbon budget uncertainties, supporting timely river rejuvenation, and guiding river-inclusive climate action.