This review describes the latest advances made in the metal-catalyzed formation of heterocycles known as cyclic organic carbonates (COCs) and their potential as modular building blocks in catalytic organic synthesis. In the first part of this overview, specific attention is given to new catalysts and concepts for the preparation of more complex, functional COCs whereas the second part focuses on the use of these functional COCs in organometallic catalysis, and specifically in emerging areas including those related to novel allylic, propargylic and C-H functionalization strategies. The assembled information on the recently disclosed potential of COCs in organic chemistry highlights a vibrant area of research with great future prospect in modern catalytic science.