The integrity of the seabed is at a level where the structure and functions of ecosystems are preserved and where benthic ecosystems in particular are not adversely affected. The description also covers D6C1, D6C2 and D6C3.

The assessment must consider whether the physical disturbance in question has a negative impact. This assessment must be made for the various physical disturbances that could potentially have a negative impact on the seabed. Whether a physical disturbance will cause a negative impact depends on the seabed's vulnerability and tolerance to the disturbance and how quickly the seabed ecosystem regenerates after the disturbance. For example, a sandy type is exposed to high current and wave influence is expected to be less vulnerable to certain disturbances than a type of habitat that is not normally affected by natural agitation of the water bodies. The extent of each adversely affected habitat type must be calculated in km2 or as a percentage (percent) of the total natural extent of the habitat in the assessment area. The results of the assessment of criterion D6C2 are used for the further assessment in criterion D6C3.

Extent of loss per habitat type does not exceed a certain proportion of the habitat type's natural extent.

Biodiversity has been maintained and the extent of adverse effects (D6C5) per habitat type does not exceed future EU thresholds for changes in biotic and abiotic structures and functions.