Spatial distribution of riverine DOC inputs to the ocean: an updated global synthesis

► Riverine dissolved organic carbon (DOC) flux into the coastal ocean was estimated to be 0.21 Pg C yr−1 based on the most up-to-date literature data. ► Considering DOC removal within the estuaries, the net flux should have been 0.17 Pg C yr−1. ► Riverine DOC fluxes had significant spatial variations, with the highest flux from South America, and into the western ocean boundaries and eventually into the Atlantic Ocean. ► ∼62% of the riverine DOC discharge was in the low latitudinal zones between 30° S-30° N.