Explore the intricate relationship between coastal sediments and biota in this 56-minute Sharp Lecture from the 2014 AGU Fall Meeting. Delve into the fascinating world of living landscapes, examining present and past interactions that shape our coastal environments. Investigate erosion processes in modern coastal wetlands and uncover evidence of early life in sedimentary rocks. Through mathematical models and laboratory experiments, gain new perspectives at the intersection of geomorphology, ecology, and paleontology. Learn about the influence of microbes, plants, and animals on sediment transport and production in coastal settings. Discover the formation of stromatolites, wrinkle structures, and surface trace fossils, and understand their significance in Earth's history. Gain insights into how geomorphology can contribute to biological sciences and explore the complex interplay between life and sedimentary landscapes since the dawn of life on Earth.