Top 8 Software For California SB 253 and SB 261 Compliance

Climate disclosure is no longer a distant corporate goal; in California, it’s becoming law. With the introduction of Senate Bills SB 253 and SB 261, the state has placed climate transparency at the center of business accountability. 

These two measures redefine what it means to operate responsibly, setting a precedent that other regions are likely to follow.

For most organizations, meeting these standards is not about willpower but infrastructure. Tracking emissions across global supply chains, ensuring consistent methodologies, and aligning with frameworks such as TCFD and ISSB demand specialized tools. 

Manual tracking can’t keep pace with the level of detail and verification these laws require.

That’s where advanced sustainability software comes handy. The right platforms help businesses collect reliable data, automate calculations, and prepare climate disclosures that meet California’s new expectations. 

Let’s explore premium solutions built for SB 253 and SB 261 compliance to help you make an informed decision. 

8 Best Software Solutions for SB 253 and SB 261 Compliance

1. Breathe ESG

Breathe ESG is a sustainability data platform designed to help organizations simplify climate disclosure and emissions management. 

Built with automation and accuracy in mind, it supports companies preparing for California’s SB 253 and SB 261 by integrating data across departments, standardizing reporting, and ensuring full visibility from collection to compliance.

Key Features

• Comprehensive Scope 1, 2, and 3 emissions tracking with detailed, audit-ready data trails.
• Real-time regulatory updates and compliance templates tailored specifically to California’s disclosure rules.
• Supplier engagement tools that streamline data sharing, verification, and collaboration across global value chains.

Pros

• Breathe ESG offers a deeply intuitive interface, helping sustainability and finance teams collaborate without technical barriers. 
• Its workflows make data entry and verification seamless, even for companies managing large datasets.
• It combines automation with transparency, allowing users to trace every emissions calculation back to its source, improving both accountability and assurance readiness.
• Strong customer support and guided onboarding ensure quick implementation and reliable performance.

Cons

• Slight learning curve during initial setup.
• Limited customization for smaller enterprises.
• Some advanced analytics features may require additional configuration.

2. Watershed

Watershed helps companies capture and report carbon emissions using verified data sources, making it easier to comply with new climate disclosure mandates. It’s popular among large organizations with complex operations and global supply chains.

Key Features

• Automated Scope 1–3 data collection and TCFD-aligned reporting.
• Scenario analysis tools and supplier collaboration modules.
• Built-in expert advisory support for compliance readiness.

Pros

• Intuitive dashboards and strong enterprise scalability.
• Real-time compliance updates.
• Collaborative reporting features.

Cons

• Higher cost for smaller businesses.
• Limited customization in visualization.

3. Persefoni

Persefoni specializes in carbon accounting and climate risk management, bridging sustainability data with financial reporting systems for comprehensive oversight.

Key Features

• Integrated carbon accounting aligned with the GHG Protocol.
• Automated reporting for SB 253 and SB 261 frameworks.
• Climate risk modeling and analytics for TCFD compliance.

Pros

• Detailed emissions insights.
• Finance-aligned metrics and disclosures.
• Frequent regulatory updates.

Cons

• Steeper learning curve.
• Interface can feel complex for new users.

4. Sphera

Sphera offers an enterprise-grade sustainability platform trusted by industrial sectors. Its system is built for organizations managing intricate supply chains and global reporting obligations.

Key Features

• End-to-end emissions tracking and regulatory alignment tools.
• Centralized data validation for Scope 1–3 emissions.
• Scenario planning for decarbonization pathways.

Pros

• Excellent for manufacturing-heavy operations.
• Mature compliance features.
• Reliable data assurance capabilities.

Cons

• Less flexible pricing tiers.
• Interface could use modernization.

5. CarbonChain

CarbonChain focuses on emissions accounting for supply chains and commodity-intensive industries, providing clarity where data complexity is highest.

Key Features

• Product-level emissions calculations for Scope 3 categories.
• Automated audit documentation and benchmarking.
• Alignment with California and SEC disclosure standards.

Pros

• Exceptional supply chain visibility.
• Fast emissions estimates.
• Focused on heavy industry compliance.

Cons

• Narrow industry scope.
• Limited ESG coverage beyond carbon.

6. Terrascope

Terrascope provides cloud-based emissions management built for scalability and cross-team collaboration. It’s a strong fit for businesses new to structured climate data systems.

Key Features

• Centralized emissions inventory and workflow automation.
• TCFD-compatible templates and supplier data tracking.
• Performance analytics for progress monitoring.

Pros

• Easy onboarding process.
• Clear, visual dashboards.
• Built-in regulatory alerts.

Cons

• Limited assurance documentation.
• Less focus on financial risk modeling.

7. Sweep

Sweep integrates emissions tracking with decarbonization planning, offering an engaging platform for teams to act on their climate goals while maintaining compliance.

Key Features

• Automated data capture and emissions tracking for SB 253.
• Target-setting and decarbonization planning tools.
• Audit-ready reports aligned with CARB requirements.

Pros

• Collaborative, user-friendly interface.
• Built-in strategy management.
• Predictive analytics for emissions reduction.

Cons

• Complex initial configuration.
• Some advanced features are restricted to premium plans.

Turning Compliance into Opportunity

While we’ve discussed what each software solution offers—their strengths, limitations, and best-fit scenarios—the reality is that every organization’s path to SB 253 and SB 261 compliance will look different. 

The complexity of emissions tracking, supply chain data management, and evolving regulatory expectations means the right platform needs to be both adaptable and precise.

AI-powered solutions like Breathe ESG are designed to meet those demands. By automating data collection, aligning seamlessly with regulatory frameworks, and providing real-time insights, Breathe ESG helps businesses go beyond compliance to build long-term sustainability performance. 

Its intuitive design and guided onboarding make it easy for teams to start strong and stay confident as California’s climate disclosure rules come into effect.

Book a free demo to explore Breathe ESG’s capabilities in complying with California regulations.