The increase in steel consumption can typically be attributed to factors such as increased building construction to meet population needs. This demand often rises due to urbanization and infrastructural development, which requires a significant amount of steel for buildings, bridges, and other infrastructure projects.
While other factors may also contribute to steel consumption, such as the use of steel in mining, the demand from the fossil fuel industry, and the manufacturing of technology products like computers, the primary driver often tends to be construction-related activities.
Therefore, the most relevant answer from your options would be: More building construction is needed to provide for the needs of people.