In conclusion, we have developed a direct synthesis of dhAAs from amino acid carbamates. The method proved reliable on the gram-scale for the synthesis of a variety of carbamate protected dhAAs. The simplicity of the setup using inexpensive, reusable graphite-rods and NaCl as mediator render this protocol an economic alternative to previous approaches. In case of alanine derivatives, no chromatography is required in both steps. The synthesis of Boc-Ala-OMe (4a) was demonstrated on a decagram-scale and opens the door for follow-up transformations. In addition, stereoselective access to dehydrolysines and ornithines was achieved using a base-induced elimination of methanol. Brønsted acid catalyzed cyclization of the same substrate afforded valuable 2-aminoproline and 2-aminopipecolic acid derivatives.