The first general catalytic and highly stereo-selective formation of (Z)-1,4-but-2-ene diols is described from readily available and modular vinyl-substituted cyclic carbonate precursors using water as a nucleophilic reagent. These 1,4-diol scaffolds can be generally prepared in high yields and with ample scope in reaction partners using a simple synthetic protocol that does not require the presence of any additive or any special precaution unlike the stoichiometric approaches reported to date. Control experiments support the mechanistic view that hyper-conjugation within the catalytic intermediate after decarboxylation plays an imperative role to control the stereo-selective outcome of these reactions.