It's just a more macro version of the buy local movement, I think.

In some places it's feasible, in others not so much. But, to each their own, I think. If that's what makes them feel better. Just like if it makes people feel better that their veggies are grown locally vs shipped in, even if the local veggies require more 'human subsidies' (energy, water, fertilizer, etc.) that in places where they grow more readily, so be it.