The fifth World Ocean Review (WOR) explores the coastal habitat and the diverse expectations upon this habitat. It provides a glimpse into millions of years of history, elucidates the theory of continental drift and discusses the many ways in which coasts have changed. It also illustrates how the diverse ecosystem services rendered by the coasts are being subjected to increasing pressure, and profiles measures that will be necessary in the future to respond effectively to the threats from both climate change and natural disasters. The report is organized in the following chapters:
- Coastal dynamics;
- Coastal living;
- Climate change threats & Natural hazards;
- Coastal protection.

WOR 5 focuses on the coastal habitat and how increasing pressures on this habitat can be addressed in the future. Although the feasibility of influencing the occurrence of natural disasters such as tsunamis and earthquakes is negligible, it is possible for people to act against climate change. Today, a wide variety of approaches and ideas have already been proposed for the responsible use and enhanced protection of coastal regions in the future. In this respect, however, it is important not only to take account of the diverse stakeholder interests that exist today, but also to take action in pursuit of the sustainable stewardship of our coasts in the future.

Many experts have contributed their ­specialized knowledge to the compilation of the World Ocean Review in 2017. These included, in particular, scientists working in one of the member institutions of the German Marine Research Consortium (KDM) and the Cluster of Excellence “The Future Ocean”.